Crack Chicken Tenders are oven-baked, crispy, and full of flavor. Each tender is coated in a rich mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, and spices, then rolled in buttery crushed Ritz crackers. The result is a juicy inside with a crunchy, golden-brown exterior. I love how easy it is to prepare and how quickly it disappears from the table—whether I’m serving it for dinner, parties, or a simple snack. It’s satisfying, cheesy, and incredibly addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, convenient, and doesn’t require deep frying. The coating delivers the perfect crunch while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside. Using mayonnaise not only helps the crumbs stick but also locks in moisture. The Ranch mix, combined with Parmesan and buttery crackers, gives these tenders a rich, savory flavor that I can’t get enough of. It’s a perfect recipe when I want a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

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

• 1 pound of chicken tenders (about 8–10 pieces)

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 ounce (1 packet) dry Ranch seasoning mix

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 20 crackers)

• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

• Cooking spray or oil for greasing the baking sheet

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.

2. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

3. Place the crushed Ritz crackers in a separate shallow dish.

4. Pat each chicken tender dry using paper towels, then season with salt and pepper if desired.

5. Dip each tender into the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring it’s coated evenly on all sides. Let any excess drip off.

6. Roll the coated chicken tender in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently to help the crumbs stick.

7. Arrange the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart for even cooking.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

9. For an extra crispy finish, broil the tenders for an additional 1–2 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

10. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the coating to firm up.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option.

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mayo mix for a spicy version.

• Use flavored crackers like garlic butter or herb crackers for a unique twist.

• Try adding shredded cheddar cheese to the coating for a cheesy upgrade.

• Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips if chicken tenders are not available.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. They last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, I place the tenders on a wire rack or baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore their crunch. I avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I Make These In An Air Fryer?

Yes, I air fry them at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They turn out crispy and golden without needing extra oil.

Can I Prepare These Ahead Of Time?

I can coat the tenders and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. This makes it easier when planning meals in advance.

What Can I Use Instead Of Ritz Crackers?

I like using crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even pretzels for a different texture and taste.

Can I Freeze These Chicken Tenders?

Yes, I freeze them after baking. Once cooled, I place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, I bake from frozen at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.

What Dipping Sauces Go Well With These?

I enjoy serving them with Ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo. Each adds a delicious extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

These Crack Chicken Tenders are a simple yet mouthwatering dish I turn to again and again. The ingredients are easy to find, the method is straightforward, and the results are always satisfying. Whether I’m feeding my family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this recipe delivers every time with its juicy texture and irresistible crunch.