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Golden crispy Crack Chicken Tenders served with seasoned fries and dipping sauce, garnished with fresh chives.

Crack Chicken Tenders

Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders made with Ranch, Parmesan, and Ritz crackers—ready in 30 minutes for the perfect weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken tenders trimmed
  • ½ cup mayonnaise preferably full-fat
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix approximately 1 ounce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup Ritz crackers finely crushed

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or by lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent the tenders from adhering during baking.
  • Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture achieves a smooth, cohesive consistency.
  • Coat the Chicken Tenders: Working with one tender at a time, coat each piece of chicken evenly in the prepared mayonnaise mixture, ensuring all sides are well covered. Subsequently, dredge each coated tender in the crushed Ritz crackers. Press gently to adhere the cracker crumbs securely to the surface.
  • Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to facilitate uniform cooking and crisping.
  • Bake the Tenders: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken tenders for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a food thermometer.
  • Optional Broiling for Crispiness: For enhanced crispness, you may broil the chicken tenders during the final 1 to 2 minutes of baking. Monitor them closely to prevent over-browning or burning.
  • Cool and Serve: Allow the baked tenders to rest for 2 to 3 minutes after removal from the oven. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.