Description
This Crack Chicken Tenders recipe offers a deliciously crispy and cheesy coating over tender chicken tenders, perfect for an easy and satisfying dinner. Using a combination of Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning for a flavorful marinade, then baked with a crispy crust made from cheddar, Parmesan, and crushed crackers, these chicken tenders are both gooey inside and crunchy outside. A family-friendly dish that’s quick to prepare and bake, ideal for a comforting meal with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to use
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 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)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing and spraying
Optional Substitutions
- Plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for dairy-free option
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Prepare the Coating: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with the ranch seasoning mix and stir until smooth to create the marinade. In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, crushed Ritz crackers, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper to form the crispy coating mixture.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt and ranch mixture, ensuring it is completely coated. Then press each coated chicken tender into the cheese and cracker mixture, making sure every piece is evenly covered with the crunchy crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to allow even heat distribution. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray to help develop a golden, crispy exterior. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, serve the crack chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue for an irresistibly flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Flipping the tenders halfway through baking promotes even browning and ensures a crispy crust on all sides.
- Ensure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Pair with fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or fries for a complete dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crack chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, baked chicken tenders, cheesy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, ranch chicken, kid-friendly chicken recipe
