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–+ servings
Benjamin

Cheesy Ranch Crack Chicken Tenders

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!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 -6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. Mix the Coating – In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  3. Prepare the Crust – In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, crushed Ritz crackers (or panko), and paprika.
  4. 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.
  5. 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).
  6. 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.

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