Description
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold ranch flavor, these Cheesy Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders are a game-changer! Made with juicy chicken tenders coated in a creamy ranch-seasoned mixture, then crusted with a cheesy cracker topping, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Baked instead of fried, they’re a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice crunch. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or meal prep!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders (trimmed and ready to use)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
Preheat & Prepare – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with cooking spray or olive oil.
Mix the Coating – In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Prepare the Crust – In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, crushed Ritz crackers (or panko), and paprika.
Coat the Chicken – Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, ensuring full coverage, then roll in the cheese-cracker mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake to Perfection – Arrange tenders on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serve & Enjoy – Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce!
Notes
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Spicy Twist: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American