Crispy Cheddar Cracker Chicken Strips

Golden, crunchy, and irresistibly cheesy—these Crispy Cheddar Cracker Chicken Strips are tender on the inside and coated in a flavorful, cheesy crust on the outside. Baked to perfection in under 30 minutes, they’re just as satisfying as classic fried chicken, like my Crispy Fried Chicken Cutlets, but without the mess.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in just half an hour, these cheesy, oven-baked chicken tenders make a perfect weeknight dinner—similar to my Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs. They’re fast, family-friendly, and easy to pair with your go-to sides.

Using cheddar crackers like Cheez-Its for the coating brings that beloved snack-time flavor to dinner in the most delicious way. Think of it like Buffalo Chicken Tenders, but cheesier—and way more fun for kids and grown-ups alike!

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🧂 Ingredients

• Chicken tenders – About 3 pounds
• Mayonnaise – Or swap with sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Butter – Melted
• Crushed cheddar crackers – Cheez-Its work great, or use Cheese Nips or any similar cheesy cracker
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Breadcrumbs – Classic or panko for extra crunch
• Spices – Salt, Italian seasoning, and optional cayenne pepper
• Dipping sauce (optional) – Ranch, honey mustard, or your favorite dip

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Add cheddar crackers to a food processor.
Step 2: Pulse until coarsely crushed—just enough to make crumbs. Pour into a shallow bowl.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the crushed crackers, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
Step 4: Stir in melted butter until fully combined.
Step 5: Brush each chicken tender with mayo (or your substitute) on both sides.
Step 6: Press each tender into the crumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Step 7: Lightly spray a wire rack with nonstick spray and place it over a baking sheet. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the rack.
Step 8: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Serve hot with dipping sauce.

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🔥 Tips for Success

• No food processor? Place crackers in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
• Use full-fat cheddar crackers—low-fat versions may dry out the chicken.
• Want to mix things up? Try flavored Cheez-Its or add extra spices to your crumb mixture for a bold twist!