1. What does “chicken tenders” mean slang?

In slang, “chicken tenders” can refer playfully to someone soft, sensitive, or emotionally gentle—just like the comfort food itself. But in cooking terms, chicken tenders are simply the tender, juicy strips of meat that cook fast and soak up flavor beautifully.

2. How to make Cheez-It chicken?

It's easy: Dip chicken tenders in beaten eggs, coat them with crushed Cheez-Its, and bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes until golden and crispy. That’s it! No frying, no stress—just cheesy crunch in every bite.

3. Are Cheez-It Snaps baked or fried?

Cheez-It Snaps are baked, not fried. They’re thinner and crispier than the original Cheez-Its, which makes them tasty for snacking. You can use them in this recipe, but you’ll need a bit more to get that same thick, satisfying coating.

4. Are chicken tenders healthy or unhealthy?

It depends on how you cook them. Fried tenders can be greasy, but this Cheez-It Crusted Chicken is baked—not fried—so it's lighter and still full of flavor. Pair it with veggies, and it fits right into a balanced, realistic meal plan.

Cheez-It Crusted Chicken: A Crunchy Twist Tha

Name: Cheez-It Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders or breasts; 2 cups Cheez-Its (original cheddar); 2 large eggs; Salt, pepper, garlic powder (optional)

Description

Cheez-It Crusted Chicken is a crunchy, cheesy baked chicken recipe made with just three ingredients. A kid-approved, stress-free dinner perfect for any night.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb chicken tenders or breasts

2 cups Cheez-Its (original cheddar)

2 large eggs

Salt, pepper, garlic powder (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Crush Cheez-Its into fine crumbs using a zip-top bag and rolling pin or food processor.

3. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.

4. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat it in the Cheez-It crumbs, pressing gently to help them stick.

5. Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

Notes

Try different Cheez-It flavors like White Cheddar or Spicy for a twist.

Use the air fryer for even more crunch—cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in oven or air fryer to keep crisp.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 18 min
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 320
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 110mg