Ritz Chicken Tenders are a crispy, golden delight that you can’t help but drool over. Imagine biting into tender chicken coated in a crunchy layer of Ritz crackers, bursting with flavor and a hint of nostalgia that takes you back to family gatherings.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Ritz Chicken Tenders
- How to Make Ritz Chicken Tenders
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What are Ritz Chicken Tenders?
- How do I make Ritz Chicken Tenders?
- Can I use other types of crackers for this recipe?
- What should I serve with Ritz Chicken Tenders?
- Conclusion for Ritz Chicken Tenders :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: it’s a Friday night, and the kids are restless, while your partner is mysteriously absent (probably lost in the depths of their latest binge-watch). You need something quick yet satisfying — enter Ritz Chicken Tenders, the superhero of weeknight dinners. These tenders not only promise amazing flavors but also bring everyone together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious Ritz Chicken Tenders recipe makes dinner prep a breeze with minimal fuss
- The crunchy coating elevates the dish’s appeal, making it irresistible to both kids and adults
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main dish, these tenders pair perfectly with various dipping sauces
- And let’s not forget the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake!
Ingredients for Ritz Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; cut them into strips for tender bites everyone will love.
Ritz Crackers: These buttery gems create the perfect crispy coating; crush them finely for optimal crunch.
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the cracker crumbs to the chicken; whisk them until frothy for better adhesion.
Garlic Powder: A teaspoon adds depth and flavor; use fresh garlic if you prefer a bolder taste.
Paprika: Just a pinch gives a lovely color and subtle warmth; choose smoked paprika for an extra kick.
For the Sauce:
Your Favorite Dipping Sauce: Ranch dressing or honey mustard pairs wonderfully with these tenders; feel free to get creative!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ritz Chicken Tenders
Getting Started with Chicken Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). While it’s warming up, grab those chicken breasts and slice them into strips about an inch wide. This will ensure they cook evenly and get that delightful crunch we all crave.
Crushing Those Crackers
Next, throw your Ritz crackers into a ziplock bag and unleash your inner chef by crushing them—either with a rolling pin or your hands if you’re feeling adventurous. You want fine crumbs that’ll cling beautifully to your chicken strips.
Creating the Coating Mixture
In one bowl, whisk together your eggs until they’re light and frothy—think of it as giving them a mini workout! In another bowl, mix those crushed Ritz crackers with garlic powder and paprika. This flavorful blend is where some serious magic happens!
Dipping Time
Now comes the fun part: dip each chicken strip first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off before rolling it in the cracker mix. Ensure every inch is covered; this is where your chicken transforms from plain Jane to crunchy superstar!
Baking It Up
Place your coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them—your kitchen will soon smell like heaven!
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes (if you can resist!). Serve these beauties hot alongside your favorite dipping sauce. Trust me; everyone will be raving about how easy yet delicious they are!
Enjoying Your Creation
Take a moment to appreciate those glorious tenders you’ve crafted! Whether it’s movie night or just another Tuesday dinner, these Ritz Chicken Tenders will steal the show every time. Don’t forget to snap some pics before diving in — after all, food selfies are essential!
You Must Know
- This delightful Ritz Chicken Tenders recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a crunchy, golden masterpiece
- It’s perfect for family dinners, and you can easily adapt it to suit your taste
- The fun of making these tenders brings smiles all around the dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to ensure even cooking. Prepare your chicken tenders by coating them in seasoned Ritz cracker crumbs while the oven heats. Bake until crispy and golden, then serve hot for best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the Ritz crackers for gluten-free options or add spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces such as honey mustard or ranch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to retain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh chicken tenders for juicier bites that won’t dry out during cooking
- Always make sure your oil is hot before frying for that irresistible crunch
- Consider adding a touch of parmesan to the cracker coating for added flavor
I remember the first time I made Ritz Chicken Tenders; my friends devoured them faster than I could fry! Their laughter and compliments made me realize how a simple recipe could bring everyone together.
FAQs :
What are Ritz Chicken Tenders?
Ritz Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that features chicken strips coated in crushed Ritz crackers. This recipe combines the savory flavor of chicken with the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. The tenders are usually baked or fried until golden brown, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender inside. These chicken tenders can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish alongside your favorite dipping sauce.
How do I make Ritz Chicken Tenders?
To make Ritz Chicken Tenders, first preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by cutting chicken breasts into strips. Crush Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag until fine crumbs form. Dip each chicken strip into beaten eggs, then coat them in the crushed crackers. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce for a delightful meal.
Can I use other types of crackers for this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly use other types of crackers if you prefer. While Ritz crackers add a unique buttery flavor, alternatives like saltines, townhouse crackers, or even panko breadcrumbs can work well too. Each type will offer different textures and tastes to the chicken tenders. Experimenting with various cracker brands might lead you to discover new flavors that you enjoy just as much as the original Ritz Chicken Tenders.
What should I serve with Ritz Chicken Tenders?
Ritz Chicken Tenders pair beautifully with various sides and dipping sauces. Popular choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or ketchup. For side dishes, consider serving coleslaw, fries, or a fresh garden salad to create a balanced meal. These tenders also make great finger food at parties or game days, allowing everyone to enjoy them easily while mingling.
Conclusion for Ritz Chicken Tenders :
Ritz Chicken Tenders are an easy and flavorful option that appeals to all ages. Their crispy texture and savory taste make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s dinner or a gathering. By using simple ingredients like chicken breasts and Ritz crackers, you can whip up this delightful dish quickly. Don’t forget to serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor! Enjoy these tasty tenders as part of your family meals or as party snacks—it’s sure to be a hit!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Ritz Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Ritz Chicken Tenders deliver a crispy, golden crunch that turns ordinary chicken into an irresistible delight. Coated in buttery Ritz crackers, these tenders are perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults. Easy to prepare, they bring everyone together around the dinner table, making every bite a flavorful experience.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cut into strips
- 1.5 cups crushed Ritz crackers (approximately 30 crackers)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., ranch dressing or honey mustard)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice chicken breasts into strips about an inch wide for even cooking.
- Place Ritz crackers in a ziplock bag and crush until fine crumbs form.
- In one bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. In another bowl, combine crushed crackers, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Dip each chicken strip into the egg, letting excess drip off, then roll in the cracker mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Arrange coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with your choice of dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
