Name: Easy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenders; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed

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These Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, savory, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Coated in a rich blend of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, and crushed Ritz crackers, this simple recipe creates chicken tenders that are juicy inside and irresistibly crunchy on the outside.

Easy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how quick and effortless this recipe is to make with just a few pantry staples. The combination of creamy mayo, tangy Ranch seasoning, and buttery Ritz crackers gives these tenders an addictive taste. Whether I serve them as a family dinner, party snack, or game-day treat, they always disappear fast. Plus, there’s no deep frying involved—just easy oven baking.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound chicken tenders
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed

Directions

I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
In a small bowl, I mix the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
I coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture, making sure it’s evenly covered.
Then, I roll the coated chicken tenders in the crushed Ritz crackers to form a crispy layer.
I place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
I bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crisp.
I let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mayo mixture for a spicier version.
For a cheesier taste, I mix shredded cheddar into the Parmesan blend.
I use crushed cornflakes or panko instead of Ritz crackers when I want an even crunchier texture.
If I’m short on time, I use pre-seasoned Ranch dip instead of mixing dry seasoning.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I place the tenders in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to keep them crispy. I avoid microwaving since it can make the coating soggy.
If I want to freeze them, I let them cool completely, freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 2 months.

FAQs

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

I check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the coating should be golden brown.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I prep the coated tenders a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until ready to bake. I wait to add the Ritz coating until just before baking to keep it crispy.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely. I cut chicken breasts into strips, and they work just as well. I just adjust the cooking time slightly if they’re thicker.

What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?

I like serving them with Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo for extra flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free crackers and double-check that the Ranch seasoning is gluten-free too.

Conclusion

These Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are my go-to when I need something delicious without a lot of effort. With a savory, crunchy coating and juicy center, they’re always a hit. Whether I’m cooking for family or hosting friends, they bring comfort and flavor to the table every time.