There’s something truly magical about comfort food that combines crispy textures with bold, satisfying flavors. Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser: tender strips of chicken coated in a savory, cheesy, and herbaceous crust that crackles with every bite. These chicken tenders are everything you want in a snack or main course—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and absolutely bursting with flavor.
This recipe has a special place in my kitchen repertoire because it’s one of those dishes that brings people together. Whether you’re preparing for a game night, a weekend family dinner, or just craving a cozy indulgence on a chilly day, Crack Chicken Tenders fit the bill perfectly. The creamy, cheesy coating combined with the crunchy breading creates a balance of textures and flavors that’s downright addictive.
And the best part? It’s so easy to make. You don’t need a ton of time or fancy ingredients to whip up this dish. It’s approachable for beginners but impressive enough to serve to guests. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s guaranteed to become a regular on your menu.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy Meets Creamy: These chicken tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender on the inside.
- Flavor Explosion: The cheesy, ranch-seasoned coating ensures each bite is packed with bold, zesty flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of these tenders. They’re perfect for picky eaters!
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can have these tenders ready in no time.
- Versatile: Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, and pair them with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for baking)
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Prepare for Frying
Before you start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re baking the tenders. If you prefer frying, heat your oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large skillet or deep fryer.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
Set up three bowls for breading your chicken tenders:
- In the first bowl, add the flour and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- In the third bowl, combine crushed cornflakes, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well to create the ultimate flavorful breading.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and start by dredging it in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press it into the cheesy cornflake mixture, making sure the coating adheres evenly. Repeat this process for all the tenders.
Step 4: Bake or Fry the Tenders
- If Baking: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle or lightly brush olive oil over the tenders to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- If Frying: Carefully place the tenders in the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Crack Chicken Tenders are done, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo are all excellent choices. Watch them disappear in no time!
Helpful Tips:
- Crushing Cornflakes: Place the cornflakes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin for the perfect texture. Don’t crush them too finely—you want some crunch!
- Cheese Blend: Feel free to mix up the cheeses. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella can add even more melty goodness.
- Cooking for a Crowd: This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. Prepare the breading mix ahead of time to save time.
- Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Extra Crispy Coating: For even crispier tenders, spray them lightly with cooking spray before baking.
Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Baked or Fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Notes:
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and crushed gluten-free cereal as a substitute for the cornflakes.
- If you want to reduce calories, bake the tenders instead of frying and use low-fat cheese.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken tenders in advance and store them on a tray in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before cooking. This is especially helpful when prepping for a party.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftover tenders in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-12 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Can I air fry these chicken tenders?
Yes! To air fry, place the breaded tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen tenders directly in the oven or air fryer for the best results.
Related Recipes:
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
Conclusion:
Crack Chicken Tenders are the definition of comfort food, combining crispy textures with bold, cheesy flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner at home or a fun party appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Once you taste these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. Happy cooking!
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Irresistibly Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders
Description
There’s something truly magical about comfort food that combines crispy textures with bold, satisfying flavors. Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser: tender strips of chicken coated in a savory, cheesy, and herbaceous crust that crackles with every bite. These chicken tenders are everything you want in a snack or main course—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and absolutely bursting with flavor.
This recipe has a special place in my kitchen repertoire because it’s one of those dishes that brings people together. Whether you’re preparing for a game night, a weekend family dinner, or just craving a cozy indulgence on a chilly day, Crack Chicken Tenders fit the bill perfectly. The creamy, cheesy coating combined with the crunchy breading creates a balance of textures and flavors that’s downright addictive.
And the best part? It’s so easy to make. You don’t need a ton of time or fancy ingredients to whip up this dish. It’s approachable for beginners but impressive enough to serve to guests. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s guaranteed to become a regular on your menu.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for baking)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Prepare for Frying
Before you start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re baking the tenders. If you prefer frying, heat your oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large skillet or deep fryer.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
Set up three bowls for breading your chicken tenders:
- In the first bowl, add the flour and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- In the third bowl, combine crushed cornflakes, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well to create the ultimate flavorful breading.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and start by dredging it in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press it into the cheesy cornflake mixture, making sure the coating adheres evenly. Repeat this process for all the tenders.
Step 4: Bake or Fry the Tenders
- If Baking: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle or lightly brush olive oil over the tenders to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- If Frying: Carefully place the tenders in the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Crack Chicken Tenders are done, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo are all excellent choices. Watch them disappear in no time!
Notes
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and crushed gluten-free cereal as a substitute for the cornflakes.
- If you want to reduce calories, bake the tenders instead of frying and use low-fat cheese.