Quick Description

These Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and downright irresistible. With just 3 ingredients — chicken tenders, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese — you’ll have a golden, crunchy, flavor-packed dish that works for dinner, appetizers, or meal prep. They’re juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and loaded with savory umami flavor.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 4 (about 2–3 tenders each)
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Ingredients List

  • 1 pound chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best for flavor and texture)

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Prepare the Coating:
    In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese. If using seasonings, mix them in now.
  3. Coat the Chicken:
    Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over each tender, coating both sides.
  4. Arrange & Bake:
    Place coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Serve:
    Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with dipping sauces of choice (ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli).

Additional Notes

  • For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for the last 2–3 minutes.
  • Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • These are naturally low-carb and keto-friendly thanks to Parmesan + mayo coating.

Dietary Info

  • High-Protein
  • Low-Carb / Keto-Friendly
  • Gluten-Free
  • Family-Friendly

Brief Introduction

Chicken tenders are a classic comfort food, but most versions require breading with flour and frying in oil. This recipe takes a shortcut — no breadcrumbs, no frying, just a creamy Parmesan coating that crisps up beautifully in the oven or air fryer. The mayo helps keep the chicken juicy while the Parmesan creates a salty, cheesy crust. The result is a healthier, quicker version of fried chicken tenders that still delivers on crunch and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide (Narrative Expansion)

Step 1: Choosing the Chicken
Chicken tenders are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If using chicken breasts, slice them into even strips to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: The Mayo Magic
Mayonnaise might seem unusual as a coating, but it locks in moisture, helps the cheese stick, and creates a golden crust. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt works as a substitute, though the flavor will be tangier.

Step 3: Parmesan Power
Freshly grated Parmesan is best — pre-grated can work, but fresh cheese melts and browns more evenly. Parmesan also adds that savory “umami” element that makes the tenders irresistible.

Step 4: Seasoning Variations
You can keep it simple (just cheese + mayo) or add spices like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs to build flavor complexity.

Step 5: Baking vs. Air Frying
Baking gives you hands-off cooking, while air frying makes them extra crispy with less time. Both methods work beautifully.

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Chicken: Can use thighs (juicier, but richer), or even fish fillets for a seafood twist.
  • Mayo: Swap for Greek yogurt, sour cream, or avocado mayo.
  • Parmesan: Asiago or Pecorino Romano can also be used.
  • Add Crunch: Mix Parmesan with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a crispier coating.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  1. Buffalo Crack Tenders – Toss baked tenders in buffalo sauce.
  2. Garlic Herb Tenders – Add minced garlic + Italian herbs to the coating.
  3. Spicy Version – Add cayenne or chili flakes to the Parmesan mix.
  4. Kid-Friendly Version – Use mild cheddar mixed with Parmesan.
  5. Meal Prep Bowls – Pair tenders with roasted veggies and cauliflower rice.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate in airtight container up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in air fryer or oven for best crispiness.
  • Freeze (uncooked) after coating; bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to cook time.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes — coat the chicken, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

Q2: Can I skip the mayo?
Yes, but mayo helps create the crispy crust. Greek yogurt or sour cream are the best alternatives.

Q3: Are these keto-friendly?
Yes! No breadcrumbs, only cheese and chicken = very low carb.

Q4: What dipping sauce goes best?
Ranch, chipotle mayo, honey mustard, or garlic aioli pair perfectly.

Optional Personal Story

The first time I made these tenders, I was skeptical about using mayo as a coating. But when they came out of the oven, golden brown with crispy edges and juicy centers, I understood why this recipe has become viral online. They disappeared from the dinner table in minutes — and now they’re on rotation in my weekly meal prep.

Call-to-Action

If you loved these Easy Crack Chicken Tenders, share the recipe with someone who loves comfort food but doesn’t want the fuss of frying. Try making a batch for your next game night, party, or family dinner — and watch them disappear!