Description
Sumptuous crack chicken tenders bring southern comfort flavors to your dinner table with irresistible crispy coating and creamy ranch-inspired seasoning. Diners will crave these golden, perfectly seasoned chicken strips that promise maximum flavor and simple culinary satisfaction.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) chicken tenders
Cheese and Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) Parmesan cheese (grated)
Seasonings and Coating:
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup (100 grams) Ritz crackers (crushed)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a precise 375°F, creating the ideal temperature for crispy, golden chicken tenders.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or applying a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Create a creamy coating by whisking mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture reaches a smooth, consistent texture.
- Thoroughly dip each chicken tender into the seasoned mayo mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
- Roll the coated chicken tenders in crushed Ritz crackers, firmly pressing the crumbs to form a robust, crunchy exterior.
- Carefully arrange the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining space between each piece to promote even browning and crisp edges.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, monitoring until the tenders transform into a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Verify doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing fully cooked chicken.
- Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest briefly to allow the coating to set and cool slightly.
- Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce, creating a delightful crispy chicken experience.
Notes
- Swap Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed cornflakes to make the dish celiac-friendly without losing the crispy texture.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo mixture for those who love a kick of heat in their chicken tenders.
- Mix the coating ingredients and coat the chicken tenders the night before, then store in the refrigerator to save time during busy weeknights.
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add a tangy flavor while keeping the chicken tender and moist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg