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Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe 😋
Introduction:
Crack Chicken Tenders are an incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make dish that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. These chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a delicious blend of mayo, Parmesan, Ranch seasoning, and garlic and onion powder. The secret ingredient to their irresistible taste? The crunchy Ritz cracker coating! Whether you’re making them for dinner, a family gathering, or as a snack, Crack Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit with everyone. This recipe combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavors, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until all the ingredients are fully blended into a creamy mixture.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders: Take the chicken tenders and dip each one into the mayo mixture, ensuring each tender is well-coated.
- Dredge in Ritz Crackers: After coating with the mayo mixture, dredge the chicken tenders in the crushed Ritz crackers. Press gently so the crumbs stick well.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- Bake: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F / 75°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these tasty crack chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces!
Method:
This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require much preparation, making it perfect for busy weekdays. The chicken tenders are marinated in a flavorful mayo mixture, which helps keep the meat juicy. The Ritz crackers provide a crispy, buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. Baking the tenders instead of frying keeps the dish healthier without sacrificing the crispy texture.
History:
The concept of “Crack Chicken” comes from the idea that the combination of flavors in the dish is so addicting it’s like “crack” (a slang term for something that is irresistibly good). While the origins of Crack Chicken aren’t exactly clear, it has become a popular recipe for many home cooks due to its simplicity and incredible taste. The addition of Ritz crackers, in particular, has become a signature twist that enhances the flavor and texture of this dish.
Benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and can be made quickly, making it ideal for busy families.
- Customizable: You can tweak the seasoning mix to suit your taste, or even add vegetables like bell peppers to the mixture for added nutrition.
- Low-Carb (if using alternative crumbs): While the recipe calls for Ritz crackers, you can easily substitute with a low-carb breadcrumb option to make it more diet-friendly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion:
Crack Chicken Tenders are a simple yet flavorful dish that will become a new family favorite. With its crispy, cheesy coating and tender chicken, this dish offers both convenience and indulgence. It is the perfect balance of deliciousness and ease, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe will surely satisfy everyone’s cravings. Enjoy!
Lovers of Crack Chicken Tenders:
This recipe has earned the love and admiration of many home cooks, food bloggers, and families. People rave about how simple it is to prepare while still delivering a restaurant-quality experience at home. Whether served as a main dish or paired with your favorite sides, Crack Chicken Tenders will bring joy to any meal. It’s a winner every time!