Okay, so if you’ve never had Crack Chicken Tenders, you are seriously missing out. These bad boys are crispy, cheesy, ranch-flavored, and totally impossible to stop eating. Think of chicken tenders, but like 1000x better. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Super crispy and cheesy
✔️ Loaded with ranch flavor
✔️ Baked or air-fried – no messy deep frying!
✔️ Perfect for dipping in ALL the sauces

What You Need

1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
1 cup ranch dressing (for dipping + coating)
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or Panko breadcrumbs)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper

How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (or set your air fryer to 375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender in ranch dressing (YES, we are going all in on the ranch).
In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Roll the ranch-coated chicken in the cheesy, crispy mix, pressing it on to make sure it sticks.

Step 3: Bake or Air Fry

Oven: Place on the baking sheet and bake for 20-22 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Step 4: Serve & Dip

Let them cool slightly (if you can resist), then dunk them in more ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce. SO GOOD.

Pro Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Tenders

✔️ Use crushed Ritz crackers – they make the crispiest coating!
✔️ Double coat for extra crunch – dip in ranch, roll in crumbs, then dip and roll again.
✔️ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – cook in batches if needed.

Make these ASAP and thank me later! Let me know in the comments what sauce you’re dipping yours in!

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