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Crispy Crack Chicken Parmesan Tenders Your Family Will Love Recipe

4.5 from 66 reviews

These Crispy Crack Chicken Parmesan Tenders combine a crunchy Ritz cracker coating with a flavorful Parmesan and ranch seasoning mix, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a family-friendly dinner or party snack, these tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy inside, delivering a delicious twist on classic chicken tenders.

Ingredients

Scale

Coating Mixture

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Substitute with Romano for a bolder taste)
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix (Homemade mix of dried dill, garlic powder, and onion powder can be used)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used instead)
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Can substitute with fresh shallots)

Crust

  • 2 cups Crushed Ritz Crackers (Can use crushed cornflakes or panko instead)

Protein

  • 1 pound Chicken Tenders (Choose high-quality for the best flavor)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
  2. Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well combined.
  3. Coat the Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the mayonnaise mixture ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides, then firmly press it into the crushed Ritz crackers to create a thick, crunchy crust.
  4. Bake the Tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Cool and Serve: Allow the tenders to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving, so the crust sets and the tenders are easier to handle and enjoy.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • If you prefer a bolder cheese flavor, use Romano cheese instead of Parmesan.
  • Homemade ranch seasoning can be used instead of store-bought to control sodium and additives.
  • Alternative coatings such as crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs will work well for different textures.
  • Ensure chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Keywords: Chicken Tenders, Parmesan Chicken, Crispy Chicken, Crack Chicken, Baked Chicken Tenders, Ranch Seasoning, Family Dinner, Easy Chicken Recipe