Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy baked chicken strips coated in a cheesy, ranch-seasoned cracker crust. This easy and flavorful recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or party appetizers.
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs chicken tenders, trimmed
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 12 crackers)
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp paprika
¼ tsp black pepper
Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top. Spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning until smooth.
- In another dish, mix shredded cheddar, Parmesan, crushed Ritz crackers, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- Pat chicken tenders dry. Dip each tender in the yogurt mixture, then press into the cracker and cheese coating until fully covered.
- Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tenders are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve hot with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ.
Notes
Swap Greek yogurt with mayo for a richer flavor.
Add cayenne or hot sauce for extra heat.
Use crushed cornflakes or panko instead of Ritz crackers for a different texture.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers and check ranch seasoning ingredients.
Reduce black pepper and paprika for a milder, kid-friendly version.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes for best results.
Do not freeze after baking, as the coating may become soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
