Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, Crack Chicken Tenders are coated in a crunchy, seasoned crust with ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and a hint of spice. These addictive tenders are perfect for dipping, snacking, or serving as a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Tenders:
- Chicken Tenders (1 lb) – Boneless and skinless
- Ranch Seasoning Mix (2 tbsp) – Adds tangy, herby flavor
- Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded) – Melts into the coating for extra crispiness
- Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Gives a light, crunchy texture
- Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated) – Adds a salty, nutty kick
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor
- Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a mild smoky touch
- Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Just the right amount of kick
- Eggs (2, beaten) – Helps the coating stick
- All-Purpose Flour (½ cup) – For dredging
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray – Helps the tenders crisp up in the oven
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking Sheet
- Wire Rack (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Mixing Bowls
- Tongs
Let’s Make Crack Chicken Tenders!
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top for extra crispiness. - Set Up Your Breading Stations
- In one bowl, add flour.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, coating fully.
- Press into the breadcrumb-cheese mixture, making sure it sticks well.
- Bake to Perfection
Place coated tenders on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness. Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. - Serve and Enjoy!
Let cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo!
What to Serve with Crack Chicken Tenders
- Dipping Sauces: BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or homemade ranch
- Side Dishes: Crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad
- Beverage Pairing: Fresh lemonade or a chilled iced tea
Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Tenders
- Use a Wire Rack: It helps air circulate for an ultra-crispy coating.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: The cheddar and Parmesan create the signature “crack” flavor.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make It Spicier: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bread the tenders and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.
Conclusion
These Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and completely irresistible! Whether for a quick dinner, snack, or game day treat, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 480mg
Crack Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, Crack Chicken Tenders are coated in a crunchy, seasoned crust with ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and a hint of spice. These addictive tenders are perfect for dipping, snacking, or serving as a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- Chicken Tenders (1 lb) – Boneless and skinless
- Ranch Seasoning Mix (2 tbsp) – Adds tangy, herby flavor
- Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded) – Melts into the coating for extra crispiness
- Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Gives a light, crunchy texture
- Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated) – Adds a salty, nutty kick
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor
- Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a mild smoky touch
- Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Just the right amount of kick
- Eggs (2, beaten) – Helps the coating stick
- All-Purpose Flour (½ cup) – For dredging
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray – Helps the tenders crisp up in the oven
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top for extra crispiness. -
Set Up Your Breading Stations
- In one bowl, add flour.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
-
Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, coating fully.
- Press into the breadcrumb-cheese mixture, making sure it sticks well.
-
Bake to Perfection
Place coated tenders on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness. Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. -
Serve and Enjoy!
Let cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo!
Notes
- Use a Wire Rack: It helps air circulate for an ultra-crispy coating.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: The cheddar and Parmesan create the signature “crack” flavor.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make It Spicier: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
