Crispy Magic: Oven-Crisped Chicken Tenders Recipe for Kids

Chicken lovers adore these crispy oven-crisped chicken tenders that pack a serious flavor punch.

Crunchy exteriors give way to juicy meat inside every single bite.

We’ve crafted a foolproof method that guarantees golden-brown perfection without excessive oil.

Marinating the chicken ensures maximum tenderness and helps seasonings penetrate deeply.

Pantry staples become the secret weapons for creating restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.

Simple ingredients and minimal prep work mean you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in under 30 minutes.

Trust me, these tenders will become your new go-to meal that everyone requests again and again.

FAQs

• What are Ritz crackers, and why use them for coating chicken?

Ritz crackers are buttery, salty crackers that create a crispy, flavorful coating for chicken. They add a delicious crunch and rich taste that regular breadcrumbs can’t match.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free pretzels instead of Ritz crackers. You can also substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a similar crispy texture.

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should look golden brown and have no pink color in the center.

Crack Chicken Tenders That Impress

• Customize with Ease: Swap out Ritz crackers for different types of breadcrumbs or crushed chips to create unique flavor variations and match your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy, cheesy coating that transforms ordinary chicken tenders into a crowd-pleasing meal everyone can enjoy together.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Prepare this dish with minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want delicious food without complicated cooking techniques.
• Nutritious Comfort Food: Packed with protein from chicken and added flavor from Parmesan and Ranch seasoning, these tenders offer a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet provides good nutritional value.

Ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Chicken Tenders: Lean and tender strips of chicken that provide the base for this flavorful dish.

• Mayonnaise: Creamy base that helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and creates a rich texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to enhance the overall taste of the chicken.
• Ranch Seasoning: Provides a tangy and herbal flavor profile to the coating.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Brings depth and aromatic flavors to complement the chicken.

• Ritz Crackers: Crushed crackers that create a golden, crispy exterior for the chicken tenders.

Preparing Crack Chicken Tenders Stepwise

Step 1: Warm Up The Cooking Space

Set your oven to a toasty 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature ensures your chicken will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden exterior.

Step 2: Create Flavor Explosion Mixture

• Creamy mayonnaise
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Zesty Ranch seasoning
• Aromatic garlic powder
• Sweet onion powder

Whisk these ingredients until they form a smooth, tangy coating that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Transform Chicken Tenders

Take each chicken tender and lovingly massage it with the flavor-packed mixture.

Then roll the coated tender through crushed Ritz crackers, ensuring every inch gets a delicious crunchy jacket.

Step 4: Bake To Crispy Perfection

Arrange the dressed chicken tenders on a baking sheet.

Slide them into the preheated oven and let them sizzle for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are completely cooked through.

The result? Irresistibly crunchy, flavor-packed chicken tenders that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips for Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders

• Use fresh Ritz crackers for the crunchiest texture and most flavorful breading. Crush them finely and evenly for the best coverage.
• Verify chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer to ensure it's safely cooked through.
• Mayonnaise helps keep chicken tenders juicy and creates a perfect crispy exterior during baking.
• Experiment with different Ranch seasoning brands or add a pinch of paprika for extra flavor depth.
• Prepare chicken tenders in advance and refrigerate before baking to enhance coating adherence and flavor infusion.

Flavorful Variations for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Gluten-Free Ranch Chicken: Replace Ritz crackers with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Low-Carb Herb Chicken: Swap Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds and add fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a keto-friendly alternative.
• Greek Yogurt Chicken Tenders: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed coating that keeps the chicken tender and moist.
• Spicy Buffalo Chicken: Mix hot sauce into the mayo mixture and coat with crushed spicy tortilla chips for a fiery kick.

Pairing Suggestions for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Create a homemade ranch dip by mixing sour cream, fresh chives, and extra Ranch seasoning for an amplified flavor explosion that complements the crispy chicken tenders.
• Prepare a light, refreshing cucumber salad with thinly sliced cucumbers, dill, and a light vinaigrette to balance the rich, crunchy chicken tenders and provide a cool contrast.
• Select a crisp, acidic white wine that cuts through the richness of the mayo and cracker coating, enhancing the overall taste experience with its bright, citrusy notes.

Proper Storage for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Place leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep them flat to maintain crispy coating.
• Wrap individual tenders in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
• Restore crispiness by preheating oven to 350F. Arrange tenders on a baking sheet, spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating.

Oven-Crisped Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.5 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savor southern-style “Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders” with a golden, perfectly seasoned crunch that rivals deep-fried favorites. Irresistible homemade comfort awaits, promising a delightful meal you can enjoy without guilt or extra oil.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb (454 grams) chicken tenders

Cheese and Seasoning:

• 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Base and Binding:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) mayonnaise
• 1 cup (100 grams) crushed Ritz crackers

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), creating an optimal cooking environment for crispy chicken tenders.
2. Create a luxurious coating by whisking mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder into a smooth, creamy mixture.
3. Thoroughly enrobe each chicken tender in the seasoned mayo mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
4. Roll the mayo-coated tenders in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently to achieve a uniform, crunchy exterior.
5. Arrange the prepared tenders on a baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even heat circulation.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to promote consistent golden browning and guarantee the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.

Notes

• Ensure chicken tenders are similar in size for even cooking and consistent results.
• Pat chicken completely dry before coating to help the mixture adhere better and create a crispier texture.
• For gluten-free option, swap Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed pork rinds for same crunch.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium Ranch seasoning and unsalted crackers if watching salt intake.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 573 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 1050 mg
• Fat: 37 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 25 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg