Name: Crack Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer flavor); 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing); Swap Ritz crackers for panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.; Use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.; Add cooked, crumbled bacon for extra indulgence!

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Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, flavorful exterior. These tenders are a fun twist on classic chicken, featuring a creamy coating of Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and cheese, then baked to golden perfection. What makes them so irresistible is their rich flavor and crunchy texture, thanks to a topping of crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier bite). Whether you’re serving them as a family dinner or a game day snack, Crack Chicken Tenders are sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of tangy yogurt, savory ranch, and melty cheese creates a unique flavor profile that is both indulgent and satisfying.

These tenders are not just quick and easy to make, but they also deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make a few swaps based on your preferences, whether you want a richer flavor with mayonnaise or a tangy kick with sour cream. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create an unforgettable dish that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Quick

This recipe comes together quickly with minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

2. Creamy and Cheesy

The combination of Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan results in a creamy and cheesy coating that’s packed with flavor.

3. Crispy Texture

The crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs) add a delightful crunch, making each bite satisfying and perfectly crispy.

4. Versatile

You can easily customize this recipe by swapping ingredients to suit your taste, such as adding bacon or using different types of cheese.

5. Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love these tender, flavorful chicken tenders. It’s a dish that’s sure to please a crowd!

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer flavor)
1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)

Variations

Bacon Add-In: Crumbled cooked bacon can be added to the coating for an extra layer of flavor.
Different Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
Tangy Option: Swap the Greek yogurt for sour cream to give the tenders a tangier flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating for a little heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers if you need a gluten-free alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), ranch seasoning mix, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the creamy mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, roll it in the crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs) to create a crispy layer on the outside.

Step 4: Bake the Tenders

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Once baked, remove the tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tips for Making the Recipe

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers, or a combination of both.
Ensure the chicken tenders are well-coated to prevent the breading from falling off while baking.
If you want to make them even crispier, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
For a healthier version, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt or opt for a homemade ranch seasoning mix.

How to Serve

Crack Chicken Tenders are delicious served on their own or with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard. For a full meal, pair them with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or even some crispy fries. These tenders also make a great appetizer for parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, place the tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the coating is crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces to use in place of chicken tenders.

2. Can I use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, mayonnaise will provide a richer flavor and creamier texture if preferred.

3. How do I make these tenders spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating mixture for a spicy kick.

4. Can I use something other than Ritz crackers?

Yes, you can use panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or another type of cracker for the coating.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or panko breadcrumbs.

6. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

You can serve these tenders with roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, as a side dish.

7. How do I make the coating extra crispy?

For extra crunch, try adding a combination of crushed Ritz crackers and panko breadcrumbs to the coating.

8. Can I freeze the raw chicken tenders?

It’s best to freeze the cooked tenders for the best texture. Freezing raw tenders may affect the coating when baking.

9. Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry the tenders at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

10. How can I serve these tenders at a party?

Serve the tenders with an assortment of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or sweet chili sauce for a fun and interactive appetizer.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are an irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, golden coating. This easy-to-make recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and comfort, making it perfect for a quick dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist with bacon or different seasonings, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy the deliciousness that is Crack Chicken Tenders!