Irresistible Chicken Tenders

Featured in Quick and Easy Appetizers.

You won't be able to stop eating these chicken tenders! The secret's the coating: mayo, Ranch, and Parmesan make a creamy base. This helps the crushed Ritz stick and get super crispy. They're baked, so they're a bit healthier and way easier. Dinner in 30 minutes, with stuff you probably already have. Great for a quick meal, but good enough for guests, too!
Emily Watson
Updated on Mon, 10 Mar 2025 03:23:04 GMT
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Chicken Tenders Image | thefamilycooks.com

Delicate crepes enveloping sweet mango and fluffy vanilla cream make an irresistible Hong Kong-inspired dessert. These elegant parcels transform basic ingredients into something extraordinary, delivering a perfect harmony of tender pancake, juicy mango, and airy cream in every bite. The result is both sophisticated and comforting.

This recipe comes from a cherished visit to a family-run Hong Kong cafe. The chef revealed her technique of cooking the crepes on just one side, creating that distinctive soft texture. It's now become a beloved weekend tradition in my kitchen.

Key Ingredients

  • Flour and cornstarch blend: double-sifted for silky results
  • Whole milk: ensures flexible, durable crepes
  • Ripe mangoes: choose slightly yielding fruits with sweet aroma
  • Heavy whipping cream: minimum 36% fat content required
  • Real vanilla extract: enriches both components

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Setup
Let ingredients reach room temperature, except cream. Prepare workspace with parchment-lined rack and clean towel. Pre-measure all components.
2. Mix Batter
Warm milk slightly. Double-sift dry ingredients. Beat eggs until light. Create well in flour mixture, gradually incorporate wet ingredients while whisking until smooth.
3. Cook Crepes
Heat pan to medium. Brush with butter. Pour 50ml batter, swirling to coat pan. Watch for matte finish. Cook one side only.
4. Prepare Cream
Whip cold cream in chilled bowl. Add sugar and vanilla gradually. Stop at medium-soft peaks.
5. Assembly
Peel and slice mangoes carefully. Layer fruit and cream on cooled crepe below center. Fold into neat package.
Easy Mango Pancakes Pin it
Easy Mango Pancakes | thefamilycooks.com

Heat Management

Pan temperature determines crepe quality. Test readiness with a water droplet - it should dance briefly before evaporating. Too hot creates crispy edges, too cool results in tough texture.

Perfecting Consistency

Proper batter thickness is crucial. It should flow like heavy cream when coating a spoon. Adjust with milk if too thick, or rest longer if too thin. Experience will guide you to the ideal consistency.

Advance Preparation

Crepes keep well for 24 hours when properly stored between parchment sheets in an airtight container. Whip cream a few hours ahead. Return crepes to room temperature before filling.

Mango Selection

Choose mangoes with gentle give and sweet stem aroma. Each variety offers distinct characteristics - Alphonso mangoes provide intense sweetness, while Philippine varieties balance sweet and tart notes.

Delicious Mango Pancakes Pin it
Delicious Mango Pancakes | thefamilycooks.com

Experience has shown that careful attention to detail elevates these crepes from good to exceptional. The harmonious blend of textures and flavors creates an elegant dessert that consistently delights guests and makes any occasion special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes them so addictive?
It's the awesome combo of Ranch, Parmesan, and those flavorful, buttery Ritz crackers. That's where the name 'Crack Chicken' comes from.
→ Can I get a head start on these?
You can mix up the coating stuff beforehand, sure. But for the best crunch, coat and bake them right before you eat.
→ What's the best way to make sure they are crisp?
Give them some room on the pan. You might also want to pop them under the broiler for the final minute or two. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven or your air fryer.
→ I only have chicken breasts. Will those work?
Totally! Just slice the breasts into strips about the same size as tenders. You might need to cook them a little longer, though.
→ What should I serve for dipping?
These are great with Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, or even buffalo sauce.

Ranch Chicken Bites

Tender chicken pieces with a yummy, crunchy mix of Ranch, Parmesan, and smashed Ritz. Baked till they're golden brown.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes

Category: Appetizers

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main

01 1 pound chicken tenders

→ Coating Mix

02 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
03 ½ teaspoon onion powder
04 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
05 ½ cup mayonnaise
06 ½ teaspoon garlic powder

→ Crust

07 1 cup finely crushed Ritz crackers

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 375°F to get it preheated. Cover a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 02

Stir together the mayonnaise, Parmesan, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until it’s smooth and creamy.

Step 03

Take each piece of chicken and coat it well in the mayo mix. Then roll it in the crushed crackers, pressing gently so the crumbs stick.

Step 04

Place the coated chicken on the baking tray, leaving a little room between each. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden, and make sure the inside’s cooked to 165°F.

Step 05

Let them sit for a minute or two before serving. Add your favorite dipping sauce on the side!

Notes

  1. Try swapping mayo with sour cream or Greek yogurt if you’d rather.
  2. Gluten-free crackers can be used.
  3. If you like things extra crispy, broil it for a minute or two at the end.
  4. These can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking tray
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Cheese grater or microplane

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Includes dairy (Parmesan cheese)
  • Contains eggs (mayo)
  • Has gluten (Ritz crackers)