Welcome to my cozy corner of the internet, where food is not just sustenance but a celebration of life’s flavors. Today, we’re diving into a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat: Crack Chicken Tenders. If there’s something I’ve learned from my grandmother’s bustling kitchen in Asheville, it’s that simple recipes can bring immense joy. This recipe combines that lesson with my love for bold flavors and my desire to make cooking accessible for everyone.
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Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Tenders
Imagine biting into a tender, juicy piece of chicken that’s perfectly seasoned and wrapped in a crispy, golden coating. That’s what Crack Chicken Tenders are all about. They’re not just a crowd-pleaser at parties but also a comforting meal on any weeknight. Growing up in a household where food was the language of love, these tenders remind me of our family gatherings: a little chaotic but filled with warmth and laughter.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just yourself, these tenders are quick, fun, and incredibly satisfying. They embody my cooking philosophy: simple, flavorful, and made with love. Plus, they pair well with a variety of sides, making them versatile for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Crack Chicken Tenders
To make these irresistible tenders, you’ll need a few pantry staples and a couple of fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
- Olive oil spray or cooking oil for baking
If you’re out of buttermilk, don’t fret! You can substitute it by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile of these tasty chicken tenders, based on a serving size of two tenders:
- Calories: 300 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Irresistible Crack Chicken Tenders That Will Change Your Snack Game
Learn how to make delicious Crack Chicken Tenders. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
To make these irresistible tenders, you’ll need a few pantry staples and a couple of fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
- Olive oil spray or cooking oil for baking
If you’re out of buttermilk, don’t fret! You can substitute it by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes.
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your own batch of Crack Chicken Tenders.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour the buttermilk into another shallow dish.
- In a third dish, mix together the crushed cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the buttermilk and finally coat it with the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray them with olive oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
These steps are straightforward and reflect the hands-on approach my abuela taught me. Cooking can be therapeutic, and there’s something rewarding about creating a dish from scratch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Crack Chicken Tenders
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your own batch of Crack Chicken Tenders.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour the buttermilk into another shallow dish.
- In a third dish, mix together the crushed cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the buttermilk and finally coat it with the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray them with olive oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
These steps are straightforward and reflect the hands-on approach my abuela taught me. Cooking can be therapeutic, and there’s something rewarding about creating a dish from scratch.
Tips for Making the Best Crack Chicken Tenders
For the crispiest tenders, make sure your cornflakes are finely crushed. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin to crush them. Also, don’t skip the step of spraying oil on the tenders. It helps achieve that golden, crispy finish we all love.
Another tip is to let the coated tenders rest for a few minutes before baking. This allows the coating to adhere better, resulting in less mess during baking. Lastly, if you prefer frying, you can deep fry the tenders in vegetable oil at 350°F until they are golden and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Crack Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside a fresh salad for a light meal, or pair them with creamy mashed potatoes for a more comforting dish. Growing up, we often had them with a side of homemade salsa, a nod to my Mexican roots.
For a fun twist, serve these tenders with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo. The possibilities are endless, and this is where you can let your creativity shine!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is a rare occurrence in my house), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the oven or an air fryer to keep them crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders?
The main ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Crack Chicken Tenders?
The total time to make Crack Chicken Tenders includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Crack Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, Crack Chicken Tenders can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Crack Chicken Tenders?
Crack Chicken Tenders pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Crack Chicken Tenders suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Crack Chicken Tenders may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Crack Chicken Tenders is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through food. From my bustling family kitchen to yours, I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought my family. Remember, cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little patience and the right ingredients, you can whip up something delicious that nourishes both body and soul. Happy cooking!
