Crack Chicken Ritz Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders are what my family requests if I ever ask what should I make for movie night. Each tender is coated in a savory layer of crushed buttery crackers, ranch seasoning, and salty Parmesan. Fast enough for busy weeknights yet crowd-pleasing enough for a gathering, these juicy and golden chicken strips have never failed me, even with picky eaters around the table.

I remember serving these for a last-minute neighborhood potluck and every single piece vanished in minutes. Now they are one of those recipes my kids brag about to their friends.

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders: for a juicy base look for evenly sized strips
• Mayonnaise: keeps the chicken moist and helps the coating stick try to choose a good-quality mayo for best taste
• Parmesan cheese: for nutty salty flavor use freshly grated if possible for better texture
• Ranch seasoning mix: brings all the zesty herby flavor you expect opt for a well-known brand for consistency
• Garlic powder: adds a subtle warmth make sure it’s fresh for best flavor
• Onion powder: for savory depth good brands offer a finer powder for even distribution
• Ritz crackers: for that signature buttery crunch crush them just before using for optimal crispiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for even golden cooking and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Make the Coating:

Mix mayonnaise Parmesan cheese ranch seasoning garlic powder and onion powder together in a medium bowl until fully blended and creamy This creamy mixture is the key to getting the coating to cling

Crush the Crackers:

Place Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs Pour the crumbs onto a flat plate for easier dredging

Coat the Chicken:

Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels Dip each tender in the mayo mixture making sure to cover all sides completely then press gently into the cracker crumbs so every inch is coated Pressing ensures the crumbs stick well

Arrange and Bake:

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each piece This helps them brown rather than steam Bake in the oven for about twenty to twenty five minutes or until the outside is deeply golden and the inside reaches an internal temperature of one sixty five degrees Fahrenheit

Cool and Serve:

Let the tenders rest for a few minutes so the coating stays put Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce

Save

My favorite part of these tenders is that first bite the cracker crust is super golden and shatters just a bit I often let my kids help with coating the chicken and they love getting their hands messy in the cracker crumbs The ranch flavor always reminds us of road trips when we would dip everything in ranch packets

Storage Tips

Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to bring back the crunch Avoid microwaving which softens the coating Leftovers are fantastic sliced cold on a salad or tucked in a sandwich

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter version swap mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt or sour cream You can turn these gluten free by using your favorite gluten free crackers in place of Ritz For a sharper cheese flavor try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan

Serving Suggestions

These tenders work as a main with mashed potatoes and green beans or as a party snack with lots of dipping sauces Ranch honey mustard and barbecue sauce all pair well For a fun twist cut them into smaller pieces and serve over a chopped salad or stuffed into a wrap

Cultural Context

Crack chicken flavor is a trend that took off for its combination of ranch creamy cheese and savory elements It usually starts with a creamy dip or shredded chicken mixture My version turns it into crispy tenders so you get the same addictive flavor with added crunch Perfect for game day or anytime you crave comfort food with a playful twist

Recipe Questions

→ What makes these tenders extra crispy?

Crushed Ritz crackers create a buttery, crisp coating that browns beautifully in the oven, especially if broiled briefly at the end.

→ Can I use a substitute for mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt or sour cream works well, adding tang while keeping the tenders moist during baking.

→ How do I ensure the coating sticks?

Press the chicken into the cracker crumbs after coating in the mayo mixture, which helps the crust adhere firmly during baking.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Switch out regular Ritz crackers for any gluten-free buttery cracker for a similar flavor and crunch.

→ How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Keep cooked tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.