1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Easy Crack Chicken Tenders

Crispy, Cheesy Chicken Tenders

Featured in Heartwarming Main Course Recipes.

Crack Chicken Tenders deliver a delicious combination of crispy and cheesy textures, making them a perfect meal choice for families, kids, or anyone who enjoys comfort food. This easy recipe is loaded with flavor thanks to ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and a crunchy coating made from Ritz crackers. They’re baked until golden and served with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or barbecue. The step-by-step instructions make it simple to prepare this dish, and several ingredient substitutions ensure there's a version for everyone. Get ready to make these a staple in your recipe rotation.
Pin it Share it Send it Print it Jump To Recipe
Rose
Updated on Thu, 13 Mar 2025 12:56:34 GMT
Crack Chicken Tenders – Easy Dinner Recipe Pin it
Crack Chicken Tenders – Easy Dinner Recipe | lovelylifewithrose.com

Crack chicken tenders transform ordinary poultry into an extraordinarily delicious meal that combines creamy, crispy, and cheesy elements in perfect harmony. This recipe elevates the classic chicken tender with a unique coating that creates an irresistible crust while keeping the meat incredibly juicy inside.

I've made these tenders countless times, and they never fail to disappear quickly at family gatherings. My nieces particularly love helping with the coating process, making it a fun cooking activity.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Chicken Tenders: Choose fresh, uniform-sized pieces for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry
  • Greek Yogurt/Mayonnaise: Full-fat versions provide better adhesion and flavor. I prefer Greek yogurt for a tangier taste
  • Ranch Seasoning: Use brand-name packets for consistent results - they contain the perfect blend of herbs and seasonings
  • Cheese Blend: Fresh-grated cheese is crucial - pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that affect melting
  • Ritz Crackers: Their buttery flavor adds richness. Store-brand alternatives work, but Ritz offers superior taste
  • Seasonings: Fresh ground black pepper and high-quality paprika make a noticeable difference

Detailed Cooking Process

Step 1: Preparation Phase
Preheat oven to 375°F. Line baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup. Set up your coating station in assembly-line style.
Step 2: Create Your Coating Mixtures
Combine yogurt/mayo with ranch seasoning until completely smooth. Mix cheeses, crushed crackers, and seasonings in separate bowl.
Step 3: Coating Process
Dip each tender in yogurt mixture, letting excess drip off. Press firmly into cheese-cracker mixture for maximum adherence.
Step 4: Baking Method
Arrange tenders with space between each piece. Spray lightly with oil for golden browning. Bake 25-30 minutes, flipping at halfway point.

Growing up, my grandmother always emphasized the importance of good protein in our diet. These tenders remind me of her cooking, though she'd never have imagined adding ranch seasoning!

Storage and Serving

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F for best results. They're excellent served with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables.

This recipe has become my go-to when I need something reliable yet impressive. The combination of creamy coating and crunchy exterior creates a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated - truly a modern classic worth mastering.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a substitute for Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can use mayonnaise, vegan mayo, or plant-based yogurt as a substitute.
→ What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
You can use panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs for similar results.
→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free.
→ What dipping sauces go best with these tenders?
They pair well with ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy Sriracha mayo.
→ Can I cook these chicken tenders in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry them at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Easy Crack Chicken Tenders

Cheesy, crispy Crack Chicken Tenders for an easy family dinner.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Rose

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders, trimmed
02 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
03 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
04 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
05 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
07 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 1/4 teaspoon paprika
09 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 Cooking spray or olive oil

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with cooking spray.

Step 02

Stir together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) and the ranch seasoning mix in a bowl. In another bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs), garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.

Step 03

Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, making sure it's fully coated. Then press the tenders into the cheese and cracker mixture to fully cover them with the coating.

Step 04

Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray, then bake them for 25-30 minutes. Flip the tenders halfway through and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 05

Once baked to perfection, serve the tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue.

Notes

  1. For the best results, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese, as it melts better and has a richer flavor.
  2. If you prefer extra spice, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper or other seasonings to the coating mixture.

Tools You'll Need

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or cooking spray
  • Mixing bowls

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cheese and yogurt/mayonnaise)
  • Gluten (Ritz crackers or regular breadcrumbs, unless a gluten-free version is used)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 92
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~