Description
Are you looking for a crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed chicken recipe that will have everyone coming back for more? Look no further! This Crack Chicken Tenders recipe is a game-changer, combining juicy chicken, tangy ranch seasoning, gooey cheddar cheese, and a crispy crust.
Perfect for dinner, parties, or a quick meal, these chicken tenders are easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy. Let’s dive into this must-try recipe!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer flavor)
- 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 for extra crunch)
Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)
Optional Substitutions:
- Swap Ritz crackers for panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or mayo) with ranch seasoning.
- In another bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, crushed crackers, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press the coated chicken into the cheese and cracker mixture, making sure it sticks.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
- Shake off any excess coating and place the tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
- Spray the tops with a light coating of cooking spray to help crisp them up.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- The chicken is done when golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve these cheesy, crispy Crack Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Crush crackers finely for a more even coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, so the tenders crisp up properly.
- For extra crispiness, bake on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet.