Crack Chicken Tenders
These baked Crack Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthy dinner option, featuring tender chicken coated in a creamy yogurt mixture and crispy breadcrumbs.
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.
Notes
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. 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. 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.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 650mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g