Description
Discover how to make the ultimate Crack Chicken Tenders! These easy-to-make chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful ranch and cheese mixture, then baked to crispy perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Setting the Stage for Baking
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Coating: Creating the Flavorful Crust
- Mix Yogurt and Ranch: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) with the ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate shallow dish or bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, crushed Ritz crackers (or panko), garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
3. Coat the Chicken: Building Layers of Flavor
- Dip in Yogurt Mixture: Dip each chicken tender into the Greek yogurt and ranch mixture, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides.
- Press into Cheese Mixture: Immediately press the coated chicken tender into the cheese and cracker mixture, ensuring that both sides are evenly covered. Gently press the mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere.
4. Bake to Perfection: Achieving Golden-Brown and Juicy Tenders
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Spray with Cooking Spray (Optional): Lightly spray the tops of the coated chicken tenders with cooking spray. This will help them crisp up and achieve a more golden-brown color.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken tenders are done when they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Flip Halfway (Optional): For even browning, you can flip the chicken tenders halfway through the baking time, although it’s not strictly necessary.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Savoring the Addictive Flavor
- Serve Hot: Serve the Crack Chicken Tenders hot, fresh out of the oven.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.