Name: Crispy Crack Tenders
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-489818H51M59S
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Olive oil spray or cooking spray

When it comes to quick and delicious meal ideas that can impress a crowd, Crack Tenders take center stage. These crispy chicken tenders are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re an easy dinner option that can save your weeknights! With a crunchy parmesan-panko coating encasing tender, juicy chicken, even the pickiest eaters will rave about this dish. A perfect choice for busy parents, game nights, or casual gatherings, Crack Tenders provide flavor and satisfaction without the fuss of traditional frying methods.

Not only are Crack Tenders simple to whip up, but they also incorporate wholesome ingredients like buttermilk and spices that elevate your classic chicken tenders into something extraordinary. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can indulge in these delightful bites that balance comfort and convenience seamlessly. They make an excellent option for meal prep, too, as leftovers reheat beautifully, keeping the crunch intact while ensuring you can enjoy this delicacy any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Crack Tenders

Crack Tenders aren’t just chicken tenders; they are a culinary experience wrapped in a tantalizing crunch. Here’s why they will quickly become a favorite in your household:

Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of buttermilk marination and spices ensures each tender is packed with flavor and stays juicy.
Crispy Texture: The use of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan creates an irresistible crispy crust that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer baking, air frying, or pan-frying, these tenders can be adapted to fit your cooking style.
Quick Preparation: With only 40 minutes from start to finish, these tenders are perfect for any busy night.
Kid-Friendly: A great way to introduce kids to healthier eating while still providing the comfort foods they love.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before jumping right into making your Crack Tenders, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and gather your tools. Start by ensuring you have a clean, organized cooking area. You will need a mixing bowl to marinate the chicken, a separate bowl for the egg mixture, and another for the breadcrumb coating. A rimmed baking sheet will come in handy, especially if you choose to bake your tenders. If you’re opting for the air fryer, ensure it’s clean and ready to go. A frying pan is necessary for those who prefer a pan-fried approach.

For the setup, make sure to spray your baking sheet or air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Having all your ingredients prepped and lined up will help streamline the cooking process. This setup not only makes the cooking less overwhelming but also minimizes mess, allowing you to enjoy the experience!

Ingredients

To create these delightful Crack Tenders, you’ll need the following simple yet effective ingredients:

1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken tenders. In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the chicken soak in this mixture for at least 30 minutes or, ideally, overnight for maximum flavor infusion. This step is crucial as it not only adds moisture to the chicken but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in a juicy, flavorful bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Coatings

While the chicken is marinating, get your breadcrumb coating ready. In one bowl, beat the two eggs until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. The combination of these spices will enhance the flavor profile of your tenders.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

After the marination time is up, take each chicken tender out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. First, dip the tender into the egg mixture to ensure the panko breadcrumbs will adhere. Then, roll the tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly so that the crumbs firmly stick to the chicken. Repeat this for each piece until they’re all coated.

Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method

Next, choose your cooking method for the Crack Tenders. For baking, preheat your oven to 425°F, place the tenders on a cooling rack set over a rimmed baking sheet, spray them lightly with olive oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. If using an air fryer, preheat to 400°F, spray the tenders and basket lightly, and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping midway. Should you opt for pan-frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the tenders for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Each method promises a crispy texture that enhances the overall experience.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Once cooked, let the tenders rest on paper towels to absorb any excess oil if pan-fried. This will help maintain their crispy texture. As an optional garnish, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy your Crack Tenders hot!

Variations

The beauty of Crack Tenders lies in their versatility. Here are some variations to suit your taste preferences:

Protein: Substitute chicken tenders with turkey or even eggplant for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add finely chopped spinach or herbs like cilantro to the breadcrumb mix for an extra flavor boost.
Spices: Experiment with spices; try using Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking Notes

Consider these useful tips to achieve the best results:

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
For a gluten-free version, substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

Crack Tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a lighter meal.
Pair with sweet potato fries or classic potato wedges for a comforting dinner.

Tips

For the best experience with your Crack Tenders, consider these additional tips:

Let the oil heat properly before adding the tenders if pan-frying to avoid sogginess.
Adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to fit your preference—add more garlic for extra flavor!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marination time)
Cook Time: 10-20 minutes depending on the method
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 400 per serving
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I prepare Crack Tenders in advance?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before and coat them before cooking. They can also be baked and stored in the fridge, then reheated in the oven.

What sauces pair well with Crack Tenders?

Crack Tenders are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces, including ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy dipping sauce.

Are Crack Tenders healthy?

Compared to traditional fried chicken tenders, Crack Tenders are a healthier alternative as they require less oil and use a lighter coating.

What if I do not have buttermilk?

No buttermilk? No problem! You can substitute it with plain yogurt, sour cream, or even milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar to achieve a similar tanginess.

Conclusion

Crack Tenders are more than just a meal; they are a delicious way to elevate your weeknight dinner or game-day spread. Their crispy crust combined with juicy chicken makes them an instant favorite among family and friends. With several cooking methods to choose from and various ways to personalize the recipe, your Crack Tenders will cater to every preference. So why not roll up your sleeves and try these mouthwatering tenders? Don’t forget to leave a comment sharing your experience or any variations you tried, and be sure to share this recipe with fellow food lovers!