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Crack Chicken Tenders

Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders Everyone Will Love

These Crack Chicken Tenders are a kid-approved comfort food combining cheesy goodness with savory ranch flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 tenders
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Tenders
  • 1.5 pounds Chicken Tenders Trimmed, can substitute with chicken breasts
  • 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise, substitute with dairy-free yogurt for vegan option
For the Coating
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) Ranch Seasoning Mix Consider using homemade ranch spice mix for freshness
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Substitute with plant-based cheese for dairy-free option
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Vegan alternatives can be explored
  • 0.5 cup Crushed Ritz Crackers or Panko Breadcrumbs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs as alternative
  • 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can use fresh garlic for more intensity
  • 0.25 teaspoon Paprika Can substitute with cayenne for heat
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste
  • Cooking Spray or Olive Oil For misting the tenders

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Tenders
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt with the ranch seasoning mix. In another large bowl, mix 1 cup of cheddar cheese, ½ cup of Parmesan, and ½ cup of crushed Ritz crackers. Add garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken tender in the yogurt mixture, then transfer to the cheese-cracker mixture, pressing to coat.
  4. Arrange tenders on the baking sheet with space in between. Lightly mist with cooking spray and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  5. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve hot with dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 0.8mg

Notes

Ensure yogurt mixture is smooth for better coating adherence. Flip tenders halfway for even crispiness.

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