If you're on the hunt for a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite, look no further than these Cheez-It Chicken Tenders! Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a crispy, cheesy crust that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Perfect for a family dinner or a fun game day snack, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your chicken tender game? Let’s dive into this cheesy adventure!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 2 cups Cheez-It crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- In a shallow dish, combine crushed Cheez-It crackers, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- In a separate shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, beat the eggs until well combined.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
- Create a breading station: First dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat completely with the seasoned Cheez-It cracker mixture, pressing gently to ensure good coverage.
- Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tender to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with a small amount of olive oil to help them brown and crisp up in the oven.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the coating to set and the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: If you're short on time, you can prepare the breaded chicken tenders in advance. Just coat them and store them in the fridge for up to a few hours before baking.
- Crush the Cheez-Its: For the best texture, crush the Cheez-Its into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Don’t Skip the Drying: Patting the chicken tenders dry is crucial. This step ensures that the breading adheres properly, resulting in a crispier finish.
- Baking Sheet Setup: Make sure to space the chicken tenders out on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around them, promoting even cooking and a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Experiment with Dips: While these tenders are delicious on their own, don’t hesitate to pair them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick!
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve Fresh: These tenders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 475kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 158mg
