Description
These Crack Tenders are the ultimate easy dinner idea for busy nights or game-day feasting. With a crispy parmesan-panko crust and juicy, tender chicken inside, they’re hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, crowd-pleasing snack, or meal prep solution, this easy recipe delivers serious crunch and flavor without the fuss of deep frying. It’s one of the best comfort food ideas that fits perfectly into your collection of dinner ideas, healthy snacks, and fast food fixes at home.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
1. Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tender in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
4. Choose cooking method:
5. – Bake: Preheat to 425°F. Place tenders on a rack, spray with oil, and bake 18–20 mins, flipping halfway.
6. – Air Fry: Preheat to 400°F. Spray tenders and basket, cook 10–12 mins, flipping halfway.
7. – Pan-Fry: Cook in oil over medium heat for 3–4 mins per side.
8. Let rest on paper towels. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For best results, marinate the chicken overnight for extra flavor and tenderness.
Use a wire rack for baking to prevent soggy bottoms.
Always preheat your air fryer or oven to ensure crisp coating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake, Air Fry, Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tenders
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: crack tenders, crispy chicken tenders, easy dinner, panko chicken, air fryer chicken tenders