The aroma of crack chicken tenders wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water with anticipation. Juicy pieces of chicken coated in a crispy golden crust dance in your mind as you think about that first bite.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I serve with Crack Chicken Tenders?
- Can I freeze leftover Crack Chicken Tenders?
- How long do Crack Chicken Tenders last in the fridge?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These tenders are not just an ordinary dish; they’re a memory maker. Picture this: a rainy Sunday afternoon spent with family, everyone gathered around the table sharing stories while munching on these delightful morsels.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These crack chicken tenders are incredibly easy to prepare and bursting with flavor
- The crispy coating gives them an irresistible crunch that pairs perfectly with any dipping sauce
- They look fantastic on the plate, making them a hit at any dinner party or casual gathering
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course for any occasion
The first time I made these for my friends, they devoured every bite and begged for seconds—now they’re a staple at our game nights.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy breasts work best; you can also use thighs for extra flavor.
- Buttermilk: The secret to tenderizing chicken—let it soak overnight for maximum flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and crispy; they create the perfect crunch on your tenders.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth and savory notes; opt for fresh garlic if you prefer a bolder taste.
- Paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika adds beautiful color and a hint of warmth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
- Your Favorite Dipping Sauce: Ranch or honey mustard are personal favorites; feel free to get creative!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven and prepare your workspace.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things clean.
Create Buttermilk Marinade: In a bowl, mix buttermilk with salt and pepper. Add chicken breasts and ensure they are fully submerged—let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare Coating Station: Set up two shallow dishes—one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika, the other empty for dipping.
Dredge Chicken Breasts: Remove each piece from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dip into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated—don’t forget those edges!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell amazing!
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy! These crack chicken tenders will quickly become a family favorite that everyone asks for again and again!
You Must Know
- This recipe for Crack Chicken Tenders combines juicy chicken with a creamy sauce, making it a family favorite
- The aroma fills your kitchen, promising a delightful meal
- Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, these tenders bring comfort food to the next level
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor. Sear the tenders in a hot pan before finishing them in the oven for perfectly cooked chicken.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Add spices like cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to retain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, always use fresh ingredients and marinate overnight if possible
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking; this helps achieve that perfect golden crust
- Lastly, let your chicken rest after cooking for optimal juiciness
There’s nothing quite like hearing friends rave about these tenders at a game night; it felt great when they asked for the recipe!
FAQ
What can I serve with Crack Chicken Tenders?
Pair these tenders with coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Can I freeze leftover Crack Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing.
How long do Crack Chicken Tenders last in the fridge?
They will last about 3-4 days stored properly in an airtight container.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Crack Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy delights that will elevate your family dinners and gatherings. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these tenders are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Buttermilk
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk mixed with salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Set up two shallow dishes: one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika, the other empty for dipping.
- Dredge marinated chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Bake on the prepared sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender (75g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
