Description
Irresistible Crack Chicken Tenders elevate weeknight dinner with a crispy, flavor-packed coating that guarantees instant family excitement. Creamy ranch seasoning and tender chicken create a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) chicken tenders
Coating Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
- 1 cup (236 ml) crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare an oven-safe baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or applying a light coating of cooking spray, then set the oven temperature to 375°F.
- Create a creamy seasoning blend by whisking mayonnaise with grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until a uniform mixture forms.
- Thoroughly coat each chicken tender in the mayo-cheese mixture, ensuring complete coverage of the protein surface.
- Crush Ritz crackers into fine, even crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor for maximum texture.
- Roll the mayo-coated chicken tenders through the cracker crumbs, applying gentle pressure to help the coating adhere completely and create a crisp exterior.
- Carefully position the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to guarantee uniform cooking and optimal crispiness.
- Transfer the tray to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, monitoring until the chicken reaches a golden-brown color and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from oven and let the tenders rest for a few minutes to allow the coating to set and juices to redistribute.
- Serve immediately with preferred dipping sauces for a delectable and crunchy meal experience.
Notes
- Cracker coating works best when crushed finely and pressed firmly onto chicken for maximum crispiness.
- Use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative without compromising texture.
- Gluten-free option can be achieved by substituting Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle additional herbs like dried parsley or paprika into the mayo mixture before coating chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg