Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Cheesy: The perfect balance of crunch and gooey melted cheese.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep make this a hassle-free meal.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to please picky eaters.
- Versatile: Serve with different dips and side dishes to mix things up.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt (or mayo) with ranch seasoning. In another bowl, combine shredded cheddar, Parmesan, crushed crackers, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, then press into the cheese and cracker mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Bake: Place coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway for extra crispiness.
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the yogurt mix for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked tenders in a single layer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, slice them into strips for a similar effect.
What’s the best dipping sauce for these tenders?
Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, or spicy mayo are great choices.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I get extra crispy tenders?
Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow even air circulation.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend for variety.
Do I have to use Greek yogurt?
No, mayonnaise works just as well for coating the tenders.
Can I add seasoning to the breading?
Absolutely! Italian herbs, cayenne, or onion powder can enhance the flavor.
What sides pair well with these tenders?
Salads, roasted veggies, fries, or coleslaw make great accompaniments.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Press the coating firmly onto the chicken and let them rest for a few minutes before baking.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the tenders and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Tenders are an easy, delicious, and family-friendly meal that’s packed with cheesy, crispy goodness. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or entertaining guests. Try it today and watch it become a household favorite!
Crack Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Coated in a delicious blend of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crushed crackers, these baked chicken tenders are a family favorite. Perfect for quick dinners, game day snacks, or party appetizers, they’re easy to make and kid-approved.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In one bowl, mix Greek yogurt (or mayo) with ranch seasoning.
- In another bowl, combine shredded cheddar, Parmesan, crushed crackers, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, then press into the cheese and cracker mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Bake: Place coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue.
Notes
- Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway for extra crispiness.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the yogurt mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise
