If you’re looking for the ultimate easy and delicious chicken tenders, these Crack Chicken Tenders are about to become your new go-to recipe! They’re juicy, crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold ranch flavor—basically everything you could want in a quick and satisfying meal.
The secret? A rich and creamy coating made with mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and Ranch seasoning, which creates an irresistibly crispy and flavorful crust. These tenders are baked, not fried, making them a perfect low-carb, keto-friendly, and family-approved dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Super Easy to Make – Just mix, coat, and bake!
✔️ Packed with Flavor – Thanks to the Ranch seasoning, Parmesan, and garlic.
✔️ Crispy & Juicy – The perfect texture inside and out.
✔️ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – No breadcrumbs needed!
✔️ Kid-Approved – Even picky eaters love these cheesy tenders!
What Do Crack Chicken Tenders Taste Like?
These tenders are savory, cheesy, and full of bold Ranch flavor. The Parmesan cheese crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, slightly crunchy crust, while the mayonnaise keeps the chicken juicy and tender inside. The Ranch seasoning and garlic powder add just the right amount of zest and depth.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders
To make this flavor-packed dish, you’ll need:
- 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
Optional Additions & Substitutions
Add Some Heat – Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Swap the Mayo – Use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option.
Try Different Cheese – Swap Parmesan for shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend.
Make It Extra Crispy – Add a sprinkle of crushed pork rinds or almond flour for more crunch.
Essential Kitchen Tools
✔️ Baking Sheet – Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
✔️ Mixing Bowl – To combine the coating ingredients.
✔️ Tongs – For coating and handling the chicken.
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. Using tongs, coat each tender in the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring they are fully covered.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated tenders on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Let Them Rest & Serve
Allow the tenders to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy inside while the coating firms up.
What to Serve with Crack Chicken Tenders
These tenders are delicious on their own but pair perfectly with:
Crispy Side Salad – A fresh green salad with ranch or Caesar dressing.
Steamed or Roasted Veggies – Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts complement the flavors.
Avocado Ranch Dip – Mix mashed avocado with a little ranch dressing for a creamy dip.
Sweet Potato Fries – For a fun contrast of crispy and sweet.
Pro Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Tenders
Don’t Skip the Mayonnaise – It keeps the chicken moist and helps the Parmesan stick.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts and crisps up better than pre-shredded versions.
Turn On the Broiler – For the last 2 minutes of baking, broil the tenders for extra crispiness.
Let Them Rest Before Serving – This keeps them from being too soft.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To keep them crispy, reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Freezing: These tenders freeze well! Store them in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make These in the Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tenders for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead?
Absolutely! Just slice them into strips to create homemade chicken tenders.
Can I Use a Different Seasoning Mix?
Yes! Try Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, or even Cajun seasoning for a flavor twist.
How Do I Make Them Extra Crispy?
For an extra crunch, sprinkle crushed pork rinds or almond flour over the tenders before baking.
Final Thoughts – Why You NEED to Try These Crack Chicken Tenders!
These Crack Chicken Tenders are everything you could want in an easy, delicious meal—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with Ranch flavor! They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or meal prepping. Plus, they’re low-carb and keto-friendly, so you can enjoy them guilt-free!
More Easy & Delicious Chicken Recipes:
- Cream Cheese & Cheddar Stuffed Doritos Chicken – A crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed chicken dish that’s an absolute must-try!
- Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken – A golden, crunchy chicken recipe made with Parmesan and herbs.
- Buffalo Ranch Chicken Tenders – Spicy, tangy, and irresistibly delicious!
Enjoy every juicy, cheesy bite!