Cheez-It Chicken Tenders

These Cheez-It Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of cheesy, crunchy, and juicy! Coated in a deliciously crispy Cheez-It crust, these tenders are baked to golden perfection in under 30 minutes. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and make a great meal for the whole family. Whether you’re serving them with mashed potatoes, fries, or dipping them in ranch, these tenders are sure to be a hit at your table!

Ingredients

2 cups crushed Cheez-Its or Cheese Nips
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅔ cup Panko bread crumbs
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp Italian seasonings
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
6 tbsp butter (melted)
½ cup mayonnaise
3 pounds chicken tenders
Ranch dressing (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Crumbs:

1. Crush the Cheez-Its (or Cheese Nips) by placing them in a Ziplock bag and rolling over the bag with a rolling pin, or pulse them in a food processor for 1-2 minutes.

2. In a bowl, mix the crushed crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, Panko bread crumbs, salt, Italian seasonings, and cayenne pepper (if using).

3. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel.

2. Brush mayonnaise evenly on both sides of each chicken tender.

Coat the Chicken:

1. Press the chicken tenders into the Cheez-It coating mixture, making sure the coating sticks well.

Bake:

1. Spray a wire cooling rack with non-stick spray and place it on a baking sheet.

2. Place the coated chicken tenders on the rack. (If you don’t have a wire rack, place them directly on the baking sheet.)

3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and the chicken’s juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Serve:

1. Serve the chicken tenders with mashed potatoes, fries, or your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Twist: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise for an extra spicy kick.

2. Cheese Variety: Try using different cheese-flavored crackers like Goldfish or even a sharp cheddar to change the flavor.

3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Panko bread crumbs and a gluten-free cracker alternative for a gluten-free version.

4. Baking Option: Instead of frying, you can air-fry these tenders for an even crispier result with less oil.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to keep the coating crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but make sure to thaw them before applying the mayonnaise and coating mixture.

Can I fry these chicken tenders instead of baking them?

Yes, you can pan-fry the coated chicken tenders in vegetable oil for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Can I make the coating ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Cheez-It coating mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, you can substitute the Cheez-Its with any cheese-flavored cracker you prefer, like Goldfish, Cheese Nips, or even Ritz crackers for a different flavor.

How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.

Can I use this coating for other proteins?

Absolutely! This Cheez-It coating is great for chicken breasts, fish fillets, or even as a crispy topping for casseroles.

Conclusion

Cheez-It Chicken Tenders are the perfect crispy, cheesy, and juicy dish for any meal. With a crunchy Cheez-It coating, these tenders are bursting with flavor and bake up in no time. Whether you serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside some classic sides, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these tenders are the perfect solution to a quick and tasty dinner!

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