Crack chicken tenders are a delightful twist on the classic chicken tender, made extra special with the buttery crunch of crushed Ritz crackers. This dish is a favorite in our household, especially on busy weeknights when I want to whip up something quick yet delicious. The recipe is simple enough for the kids to help with, and the result is a tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful coating that everyone loves. It's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

These crack chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic meal, serve them with homemade mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. If you're in the mood for something lighter, a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken perfectly. For a fun, kid-friendly option, consider serving them with sweet potato fries and a side of honey mustard or ranch for dipping.

Servings: 4

1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup melted butter

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a shallow dish, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the chicken tenders.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Serve hot and enjoy!

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cracker mixture. If you have picky eaters, you can skip the Parmesan cheese and use a milder cheese like cheddar. For a gluten-free option, substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers. You can also try adding some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the cracker mixture for an extra burst of flavor.

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