There’s something irresistibly satisfying about the crispy, juicy crunch of these Crack Chicken Tenders. Inspired by a mix of Southern comfort food and global flavors, this dish combines timeless techniques with a modern twist.
Imagine your favorite fried chicken with an unexpected burst of flavor that might just remind you of a street food stall you stumbled upon during a trip to the heart of the Caribbean or a cozy bistro in the South of France.
Here’s a recipe that takes the best of comfort food, explores bold seasonings, and adds just the right amount of international flair to elevate your culinary game. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining, this dish is both a crowd-pleaser and a cooking adventure waiting to happen in your kitchen.
The key to making these tenders crispy without compromising the juicy texture inside? Use a double-dipping method – first in a buttermilk bath, then into seasoned flour. This will create a perfectly crisp exterior, just like they do at those classic roadside diners where flavor meets technique.
Flavor Bomb Alert!
- The first bite was like a flavor explosion. The combination of crispy, juicy chicken with savory and spicy notes will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.
- It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy to fall in love with. Quick prep time and a winning taste make it my go-to for busy evenings when I crave something indulgent.
- A little seasoning tweak here and there has become my secret. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne, and you’ll be amazed at how the flavors pop.
- Perfect for leftovers. Whether in wraps, on a salad, or even as a snack, these tenders keep their crunch and flavor, no matter how you serve them.
- Everyone in my family loves them. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and every time I make them, someone asks for the recipe!
Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
- Tongs or fork
- Oven or broiler
Ingredients
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
- In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Dip each chicken tender into the mayo mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Roll the coated chicken tenders in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently so the crumbs stick.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Let the chicken tenders cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version.
- Swap Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers.
- Broil at the end for 1-2 minutes, keeping an eye to avoid burning.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 581kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13.5g |
| Fibre | 0.4g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Protein | 41.8g |
| Cholesterol | 118g |
Variations To Help You Customize This Dish!
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mayo mixture for a spicy twist. You can also use spicy Ranch seasoning for an extra punch.
- Cheese Swap: Try swapping Parmesan with sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives to the mayo mixture for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Crunch Factor: Substitute Ritz crackers with crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even pretzels for a different texture and crunch.
- Sweet & Savory: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the mayo mixture to balance the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
