Crispy Ranch Parmesan Tenders

This irresistibly crunchy Crack Chicken Tenders recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed meal that even the pickiest eaters will devour. The combination of creamy coating and crispy exterior creates that perfect contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something quick that would please the whole family. Now it has become our Thursday night tradition, with my children actually cheering when they see the Ritz cracker box come out of the pantry.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenders fresh is best but frozen will work if thawed completely
• 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise provides moisture and richness that keeps the chicken juicy
• 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds savory depth and helps create a golden crust
• 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix the secret flavor booster that makes these tenders addictive
• 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder enhances the savory notes
• 1⁄2 teaspoon onion powder adds subtle sweetness and depth
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers creates that signature buttery crunch that makes these tenders special

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the chicken. This ensures even cooking and that perfect crispiness we're looking for. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Create the Flavor Base

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning packet, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until you have a smooth, creamy consistency. This mixture is what gives the chicken its incredible flavor and helps the cracker coating adhere.

Coat the Chicken

Add your chicken tenders to the mayonnaise mixture, using tongs to turn and coat each piece evenly. Take your time here to ensure every tender is completely covered in the mixture this is what keeps the chicken moist during baking.

Apply the Crunch Factor

Pour your crushed Ritz crackers into a shallow dish. One by one, roll each coated chicken tender in the cracker crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well to all sides. The more complete the coating, the better the crunch.

Arrange for Success

Place the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet, allowing a little space between each piece. This ensures air circulation for even browning. If tenders are touching, they may steam rather than crisp in those areas.

Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a golden brown exterior and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The coating should be visibly crispy and the chicken should be firm but still juicy when cut into.

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The Ranch seasoning packet is truly the star ingredient here. While I've tried making these with homemade ranch seasonings, there's something about the commercial mix that creates that distinctive "crack chicken" flavor that keeps everyone reaching for more. My nephew once ate seven of these tenders in one sitting and still talks about them months later.

Make Ahead Options

These tenders can be prepared up to the baking stage and refrigerated for up to 8 hours before cooking. Simply cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats to take the chill off. You may need to add 2 to 3 minutes to the baking time for refrigerated tenders.

Perfect Pairings

The beauty of these Crack Chicken Tenders is their versatility. Serve them with classic dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard for a traditional approach. For a complete meal, pair with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. They also make excellent protein for grain bowls or can be sliced and added to wraps with fresh veggies.

Why They're Called "Crack" Chicken

The name comes from the addictive quality of this flavor combination. The ranch seasoning mixed with Parmesan creates a savory umami base that's incredibly satisfying. The buttery Ritz crackers provide the perfect contrast in texture to the tender chicken inside. It's a combination that hits all the right flavor notes which explains why you'll find it hard to stop at just one or two pieces.

Storage Solutions

These chicken tenders maintain their best texture when eaten fresh from the oven. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This method helps restore some of the exterior crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible as it tends to make the coating soggy.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips instead of tenders. Just ensure they're cut to a similar thickness (about 1-inch strips) for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time by 2-3 minutes depending on the size.

→ What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?

If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed potato chips. Each alternative will provide a different flavor profile, but all will create a crispy exterior.

→ How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?

The chicken tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, cut into the thickest part of a tender - the meat should be completely white with no pink remaining.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the tenders up to the coating stage and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking. For best results, bake them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated in an oven or air fryer.

→ What sides pair well with these chicken tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, french fries, or a simple green salad. For a more complete meal, serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or mac and cheese. Don't forget dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce!

→ Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze these tenders after cooking. Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.