Irresistible Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe for Family Dinners

Crispy crack chicken tenders spark joy in every bite, promising a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Seasoned perfectly with a blend of herbs and spices, these tender morsels deliver an irresistible crunch.

Creamy ranch and melted cheese create a mouthwatering combination that screams comfort food.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this simple yet addictive recipe.

Home cooks can whip up these crowd-pleasers in under thirty minutes, impressing everyone at the table.

Each golden-brown piece guarantees smiles and second helpings.

Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one tender.

Pairing Ideas for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Enjoy a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the ranch's tangy flavor and cuts through the rich, creamy coating.
• Create Ranch Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick homemade ranch dip using sour cream, buttermilk, and fresh herbs to enhance the chicken's existing ranch seasoning and provide a cool, creamy accompaniment.
• Serve with Crunchy Coleslaw: Prepare a light, zesty coleslaw with vinegar-based dressing to balance the richness of the chicken tenders and add a refreshing crunch to the meal.

Storage Tips for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap individual chicken tenders in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label the bag with the date to track storage time.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place tenders on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through, checking internal temperature reaches 165F.
• Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking midway.

FAQs for Crack Chicken Tenders

• What makes the ranch coating special?

The combination of ranch seasoning, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and spices creates a creamy, tangy, and flavorful coating that helps keep the chicken tenders moist and adds incredible taste.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts by cutting them into tender-sized strips. Just ensure they are evenly cut and cook to the same internal temperature of 165F (74C).

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C). The chicken should also look golden brown and have no pink inside when cut.

Why Crack Chicken Tenders Are So Addictive

• Simplify Dinner Prep: Combine ingredients quickly in one bowl, creating a hassle-free meal that transforms boring chicken into a mouthwatering dish with minimal effort.
• Customize for Every Palate: Easily adjust seasonings to suit different taste preferences, making this recipe adaptable for picky eaters or those wanting to experiment with flavors.
• Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Deliver a crispy, flavorful chicken recipe that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied and asking for seconds.
• Healthy Baking Option: Achieve a crispy texture without deep-frying, offering a healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on taste or texture.

Ingredients Needed for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Chicken Tenders: Tender and juicy strips of chicken perfect for a delicious and easy meal.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: A flavorful blend of herbs and spices that adds a tangy and savory taste to the chicken.

• Mayonnaise: Creamy condiment that helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and adds moisture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, salty flavor and helps create a crispy coating.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Aromatic spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Black Pepper, Paprika: Spices that provide depth and a subtle kick to the chicken tenders.

• Fresh Parsley: Optional herb that adds a fresh, bright touch to the finished dish.
• Parchment Paper, Silicone Baking Mat: Non-stick surfaces that prevent the chicken from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup easier.

How to Prepare Crack Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400F (200C). This high heat will help create a crispy, golden exterior on your chicken tenders.

Step 2: Whip Up the Flavor Blend

• Ranch seasoning mix
• Mayonnaise
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper
• Paprika

Stir everything together until you create a smooth, creamy mixture that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Massage the Chicken

Take each chicken tender and generously coat it with the ranch mixture. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered in this flavor-packed goodness.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange the coated chicken tenders with some breathing room between them.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the tenders turn a beautiful golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165F (74C).

Step 6: Finish and Feast

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve these mouth-watering tenders hot and watch them disappear in minutes!

Pro Tips for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Seal in Moisture: Pat chicken tenders dry before coating to help the ranch mixture adhere better and create a crispier exterior.
• Adjust Seasoning Levels: Reduce ranch mix for a milder flavor or add extra for more intense taste, tailoring to personal preference.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165F for safe, perfectly cooked tenders without drying out.
• Prevent Sticking: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to keep chicken tenders from sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Enhance Crispiness: For extra crunch, broil chicken tenders for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Variation Suggestions for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Keto-Friendly Version: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and use almond flour instead of Parmesan cheese for a low-carb option.
• Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the ranch mixture for an extra kick of heat.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free ranch seasoning mix and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Air Fryer Alternative: Cook chicken tenders in an air fryer at 375F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through for crispy results.

Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent crack chicken tenders elevate classic comfort food with an irresistible blend of crispy coating and creamy ranch seasoning. Packed with bold flavors and easy preparation, these tenders promise a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (lb) / 454 grams chicken tenders

Cheese and Seasoning:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Binding and Garnish:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
2. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ranch seasoning, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika until the mixture forms a smooth, consistent coating.
3. Dredge each chicken tender completely in the prepared mixture, ensuring every surface is generously and evenly covered with the seasoned blend.
4. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a parchment-lined or silicone mat-covered baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow proper heat circulation.
5. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, monitoring the chicken’s color transformation to a golden-brown hue and checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, then sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant garnish.
7. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, enjoying the rich, tangy flavors of these ranch-infused chicken tenders.

Notes

• Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version that reduces calories without compromising taste.
• Adjust ranch seasoning intensity by reducing or increasing the mix amount to suit personal spice preferences.
• Use gluten-free ranch mix and almond flour coating for a celiac-friendly alternative that maintains crispy texture.
• Pat chicken tenders completely dry before coating to ensure maximum seasoning adherence and crispier exterior.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 386 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 890 mg
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg