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Ranch Parmesan Ritz Crusted Chicken Tenders

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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30–40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking (also works in air fryer)
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crispy, flavorful chicken tenders coated in a savory Ranch‑Parmesan mayo mixture and crunchy Ritz crackers—utterly addictive and perfect for a family meal or snack.


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

  1. Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
  3. Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered.
  4. Dredge each coated tender in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere.
  5. Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).
  7. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Substitutions: Greek yogurt or sour cream can replace mayonnaise for a lighter option.
  • Gluten‑free variation: Use gluten‑free crackers or breadcrumbs instead of Ritz.
  • Extra crispiness: Turn on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • Make‑ahead: You can bread the tenders up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Freezing: After breading, freeze tenders on a baking sheet; once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. ¼ recipe)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 640 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g