Making Crack Chicken Tenders has been a delightful discovery in my kitchen. This easy dinner recipe combines the savory goodness of chicken, ranch seasoning, and a cheesy coating that the whole family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, and the best part? It’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.

Why you’ll love this dish

One of the standout features of Crack Chicken Tenders is just how easy and adaptable it is. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe allows you to whip together a comforting meal in no time. It also proves to be budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Perfect for a hectic weekday dinner or a fun family brunch, these tenders pair wonderfully with various sides, making them a versatile addition to your repertoire.

“These Crack Chicken Tenders were a hit! My kids devoured them, and they were super easy to make. I will definitely be adding this to our regular meals!” – A satisfied home chef

Step-by-step overview

Let’s break down how to make these tasty Crack Chicken Tenders! The process is simple and consists of the following steps: prepare your coating, coat the chicken, and bake until golden and crispy. You will have a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner on your table in about 30 minutes.

What you’ll need

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this dish:

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders: Make sure they are trimmed and ready to use.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise): It provides a creamy base for the coating.
• 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix: This is the secret ingredient for that tangy flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For gooey, cheesy goodness.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nice savory depth.
• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs): This forms a delightful crispy crust.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: It amps up the flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon paprika: This adds a hint of smokiness.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For just the right touch of zest.
• Cooking spray or olive oil: To achieve that perfect golden finish.

Feel free to swap Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative. Also, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used if necessary.

Directions to follow

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the tenders bake to golden perfection.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a large bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) with the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into your yogurt mixture, ensuring they are completely covered. Then coat them in the mixture of shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden and fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, serve the tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy this crowd-pleasing meal.

Best ways to enjoy it

Crack Chicken Tenders can elevate your dinner game when paired with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a refreshing side salad, crisp veggies, or classic fries for the ultimate comfort meal. You could also serve them on a bed of rice for a fulfilling dish or tuck them into a warm tortilla with fresh veggies for a tasty wrap.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store the tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze cooked tenders for up to three months; just thaw them in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful cooking tips

For the best results with your Crack Chicken Tenders, ensure the chicken is patted dry before coating to help the mixture adhere better. Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends or even add a sprinkle of herbs for additional flavor. Remember, the more you practice, the better these will turn out!

Creative twists

If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding minced jalapeños to the coating for a kick. You can also incorporate your favorite shredded cheese varieties—think pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for extra chewiness. For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare the Crack Chicken Tenders?

From prep to table, this recipe takes about 30 minutes.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken tenders up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them before serving.

What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?

You could try using any other dry dressing mix, such as Italian or taco seasoning, depending on your flavor preference.

Enjoy making these Crack Chicken Tenders, and get ready for a delicious meal that your family will ask for again and again!

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