Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe

Chicken tenders are a favorite comfort food for many, but they can also be transformed into a flavorful and crispy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe combines the tangy, herby taste of ranch seasoning with a golden, crunchy coating, making it a go-to for quick weeknight dinners, appetizers, or even game-day snacks. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and bakes to perfection in the oven, keeping things on the healthier side without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: The ranch seasoning in this recipe adds a bold, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy breading.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything is likely already in your pantry.
• Kid-Friendly: These chicken tenders are sure to be a hit with kids (and adults alike), making them a great option for family dinners or gatherings.
• Baked, Not Fried: These chicken tenders are baked to a crispy perfection, meaning they’re healthier than traditional fried chicken but just as delicious.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenders with the buttermilk and 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix. Stir to coat the chicken evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). This step helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
2. Preheat the Oven: While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This will allow the air to circulate around the tenders, making them extra crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, the remaining packet of ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well-mixed. The panko and Parmesan will give the tenders their signature crunch.
2. Beat the Eggs: In a separate shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. These will help the breading adhere to the chicken tenders.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Dredge the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Working one piece at a time, dip each chicken tender first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Final Coating: Finally, press the chicken into the panko mixture, coating it evenly on all sides. Place each breaded chicken tender on the wire rack as you go.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders

1. Bake for Crispiness: Lightly spray the coated chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle them with a little olive oil. This will help them achieve a golden brown, crispy texture in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
2. Flip for Even Cooking: About halfway through the baking time (around 12 minutes), flip the chicken tenders over to ensure both sides get crispy and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken tenders rest for a couple of minutes after baking to lock in the juices and cool slightly.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your crispy ranch chicken tenders with a side of ranch dressing for dipping, or try other sauces like BBQ, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give these chicken tenders their extra crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko is lighter and creates a crunchier crust.
• Don’t Skip the Wire Rack: Baking the chicken on a wire rack ensures that the air circulates around the tenders, making them crispy on all sides without having to fry them.
• Spray with Oil: Lightly spraying the tenders with oil or using a drizzle of olive oil helps the breading crisp up in the oven, so don’t skip this step.
• Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also adds flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marination step, but it’s highly recommended for best results.
• Make Ahead: You can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for a few hours until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them a great option for meal prepping or quick dinners.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy ranch chicken tenders are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: A classic pairing that’s always a hit.
• Roasted Vegetables: Balance out the meal with some roasted broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that complements the crispy tenders perfectly.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with ranch dressing or a tangy coleslaw makes for a lighter side.
• Mac and Cheese: For an indulgent meal, serve the chicken tenders with creamy mac and cheese.

How to Store and Reheat

Storage

• In the Refrigerator: Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked tenders. Once they’ve cooled completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• In the Oven: To keep the tenders crispy, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. For frozen tenders, you may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time.
• In the Air Fryer: The air fryer is an excellent way to reheat chicken tenders, as it brings back the crispiness. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Homemade Ranch Seasoning Recipe

If you prefer to make your own ranch seasoning instead of using store-bought packets, here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried chives
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl.
2. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

This homemade ranch seasoning can be used in the chicken marinade, the breading, or as a flavorful addition to any dish that calls for ranch flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Simply slice them into strips or use whole pieces for crispy ranch chicken cutlets.

Can I fry the chicken tenders instead of baking them?

Yes! To fry the tenders, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the tenders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of the panko breadcrumbs.

Nutritional Information

For those keeping an eye on nutritional values, here’s a general breakdown per serving (based on a standard recipe serving six people):

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg

Please note that these values can vary based on specific brands of ingredients used and portion sizes. For a more accurate count, you can use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and amounts.

Variations to Try

This crispy ranch chicken tender recipe is versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste. Here are some variations to consider:

Spicy Ranch Chicken Tenders

• Add Heat: Mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the ranch seasoning for a spicy kick. Alternatively, use a hot sauce mixed with the buttermilk for marinating.

Herb-Crusted Chicken Tenders

• Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Cheesy Ranch Chicken Tenders

• Extra Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese into the panko mixture for cheesy goodness.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Tenders

• Citrus Twist: Add lemon zest to the buttermilk marinade and sprinkle some lemon juice over the chicken after baking for a refreshing flavor.

Asian-Inspired Chicken Tenders

• Soy Sauce Marinade: Swap the ranch seasoning for a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger for an Asian twist. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

Pairing Ideas

While these crispy ranch chicken tenders are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some pairing suggestions:

• Fresh Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing complements the crispy chicken and adds freshness.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with salt, is a perfect side.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs and spices are a satisfying addition.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken tenders.

Hosting Tips

Planning a gathering or party? Here are some tips on how to incorporate crispy ranch chicken tenders into your event:

• Set Up a Dipping Station: Provide a variety of dipping sauces alongside the chicken tenders, such as ranch, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, and buffalo sauce. This allows guests to customize their experience.
• Make It a Meal: Pair the chicken tenders with a few sides and drinks for a casual meal option. Consider adding a side salad, some chips, and iced tea or lemonade.
• Finger Food Friendly: Serve the chicken tenders as finger food at a party with toothpicks or mini skewers for easy handling.
• Batch Cooking: If you’re feeding a crowd, consider making a double batch. The chicken tenders can be kept warm in a low oven while you prepare other dishes.

Making it Ahead

For busy weeknights or when planning for a gathering, you can make these chicken tenders ahead of time:

• Prep in Advance: You can marinate the chicken and coat it up to a day ahead. Just store the breaded tenders in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the breaded chicken tenders before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Meal Prep: Consider making a larger batch for meal prep. Cook the chicken tenders, then portion them into individual servings with sides for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Making Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders at home is not only easy but also allows you to customize them to suit your family’s preferences. This recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a classic favorite while keeping things fresh and flavorful. The combination of crispy coating, tender chicken, and ranch flavor is sure to be a hit at your table.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a casual gathering, or simply craving a delicious meal, these chicken tenders are an excellent choice. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade crispy ranch chicken tenders with your loved ones!

Yield: 4

Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe

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Chicken tenders are a favorite comfort food for many, but they can also be transformed into a flavorful and crispy dish that's perfect for any occasion. This Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe combines the tangy, herby taste of ranch seasoning with a golden, crunchy coating, making it a go-to for quick weeknight dinners, appetizers, or even game-day snacks. The best part? It's easy to prepare and bakes to perfection in the oven, keeping things on the healthier side without sacrificing flavor.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar added, let sit for 5 minutes)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch or regular)
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
   
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   In a bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 10-15 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator) to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
   
3. Prepare the Breading:
   In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
   
4. Coat the Chicken:
   Remove each chicken tender from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
   
5. Bake:
   Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them to help achieve a crispy texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
   
6. Serve:
   Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.

Notes

• Baking Instead of Frying: Baking is a healthier alternative to frying, but for an even crispier texture, you can use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Make It Spicy: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: For meal prep, you can freeze uncooked breaded chicken tenders. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.