Why Make This Recipe
Crack Chicken Tenders are a fantastic dinner option for busy weeknights. They are simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy yogurt, and delicious seasonings makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, these tenders are baked, not fried, making them a lighter choice without sacrificing taste.
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders: Trimmed and ready to use.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise): Acts as a base for coating the chicken.
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix: Provides that iconic flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For extra savory depth.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs): Creates a crispy crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a subtle kick.
- Cooking spray or olive oil: To help achieve golden perfection.
- Swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free option.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re avoiding gluten.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken tenders cook evenly and get crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. This will be your creamy coating.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken tender and dip it into the yogurt mixture. Make sure to coat it well, then roll it in the crushed Ritz crackers (or panko).
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray or drizzled with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, take the tenders out and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are great on their own or served with dips like ranch, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard. Pair them with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal.
How to Store Crack Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven to keep them crispy.
Tips to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
- For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Experiment with different seasoning mixes for varied flavors.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper to the coating mix.
Variation
Feel free to add different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a new twist. You can also mix in some spices or herbs for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just make sure to thaw them before coating and baking.
2. Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tenders and store them in the fridge before baking. Just wait to bake until you are ready to serve.
3. Are these chicken tenders suitable for kids?
Absolutely! The flavors are mild and loved by kids. They can even help with the coating process for some fun family cooking time.
Crack Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders Trimmed and ready to use.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) Acts as a base for coating the chicken.
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix Provides that iconic flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Adds gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese For extra savory depth.
- 0.5 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs) Creates a crispy crust.
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor.
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika Adds a touch of smokiness.
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper For a subtle kick.
- cooking spray or olive oil To help achieve golden perfection.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken tenders cook evenly and get crispy.
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. This will be your creamy coating.
Coating and Baking
- Take each chicken tender and dip it into the yogurt mixture. Make sure to coat it well, then roll it in the crushed Ritz crackers (or panko).
- Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray or drizzled with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Serving
- Once baked, take the tenders out and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.