Crack Chicken Tenders
Delicious and easy-to-make chicken tenders coated in a creamy ranch and cheese mixture, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to use
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) Acts as a base for coating the chicken
- 1 ounce ranch seasoning mix Provides iconic flavor
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Adds gooey, cheesy goodness
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese For extra savory depth
- 0.5 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs) Creates a crispy crust
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika Adds a touch of smokiness
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper For a subtle kick
- cooking spray or olive oil To achieve golden perfection
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), ranch seasoning mix, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper until well combined.
- Coat each chicken tender well with the yogurt mixture to ensure they are fully covered.
Baking
- Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs) evenly over the top of each tender.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the tops are golden brown.
Serving
- Once baked, let the tenders cool for a few minutes before serving hot with your favorite dipping sauce or sides.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, swap Greek yogurt for plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise and use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. For added flavor, consider adding cayenne pepper or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.