Crack Chicken Tenders – Juicy, Creamy & Addictive Weeknight Dinner
A juicy, creamy, crispy crack chicken tenders recipe made with Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, cheddar, Parmesan, and crushed Ritz crackers—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders trimmed
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 packet 1 ounce ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- Optional gluten-free or dairy-free substitutions as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven — Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or light cooking spray.
- Prepare the Yogurt Coating — Combine the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with the ranch seasoning mix in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Mix the Crispy Coating — Stir together the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper in a second bowl.
- Coat the Chicken — Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, ensuring full coverage.
- Add the Crunch — Press each coated tender into the cheese and cracker mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange for Baking — Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet with space between each piece.
- Encourage Browning — Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray to promote crispiness.
- Bake the Tenders — Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and Enjoy — Serve the tenders hot with ranch, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce