Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders

Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders bring together juicy, tender chicken with a crispy, flavorful coating that is perfect for any meal or snack. Infused with Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, and spices, these tenders are a hit for all ages and occasions. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a healthier take on traditional fried chicken, without sacrificing taste or texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of Parmesan, ranch seasoning, and smoked paprika gives these tenders a bold, savory taste.
2. Healthier Alternative: Baking instead of frying reduces calories and fat, while still delivering a crunchy, satisfying texture.
3. Family-Friendly: These tenders are loved by kids and adults alike, making them perfect for family meals or gatherings.
4. Versatile and Easy: Whether served as a main dish, snack, or party appetizer, these chicken tenders are incredibly adaptable and simple to prepare.

Ingredients: Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coating:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or placing a wire rack on top. This setup ensures even baking and maximum crispiness.

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, add the chicken tenders and pour the buttermilk over them. Allow the chicken to marinate for 20–30 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and enhances its flavor, ensuring moist, juicy results.

Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dip each tender into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Repeat this process until all the tenders are coated.

Arrange and Bake

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray to enhance their crispiness. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders are ready when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a finishing touch.

PIN FOR LATER!

Tips for Success

1. Use a Wire Rack: Baking the tenders on a wire rack promotes even airflow, resulting in a consistently crispy coating.
2. Marinate for Tenderness: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
3. Firmly Press the Coating: Gently pressing the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken ensures a thicker, crunchier crust.
4. Flip with Care: Turning the tenders halfway through baking helps them cook evenly on both sides.

Creative Variations

1. Add a Spicy Twist: Mix ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
2. Experiment with Herbs: Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley to the coating for a more herbaceous flavor.
3. Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
4. Try Different Cheeses: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan for a unique taste.

Pairing Ideas

1. Dipping Sauces: Pair with classic ranch, honey mustard, sriracha mayo, or buffalo sauce for a variety of flavors.
2. Side Dishes: Serve alongside coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
3. Tacos or Wraps: Slice the tenders and use them as a filling for tacos or wraps, adding lettuce, avocado, and salsa for a crispy twist on taco night.
4. Over Salads: Place the tenders over a fresh green salad for a satisfying, protein-packed lunch.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 310 per serving
• Protein: 27 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Sodium: 520 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
A: Yes, simply cut chicken breasts into strips to create tender-sized pieces. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can these be made in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Q: How far in advance can I prepare these?
A: You can coat the tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.

Similar Recipes to Explore

1. Baked Chicken Parmesan: A crispy, cheesy Italian-inspired dish baked to perfection.
2. Buffalo Chicken Bites: Bite-sized chicken pieces coated in spicy buffalo sauce, perfect for game day.
3. Honey Garlic Chicken Wings: Sticky, sweet, and savory wings baked for ultimate flavor.
4. Oven-Baked Fish Sticks: A healthier alternative to a childhood favorite, great with tartar sauce.

Why Homemade Chicken Tenders Are Better

Making chicken tenders at home gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize the flavors and avoid unnecessary additives or preservatives. You can experiment with healthier options, such as baking instead of frying, or using gluten-free breadcrumbs to suit dietary needs. Moreover, the process of preparing and baking these tenders can be a fun and rewarding activity for the entire family. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving a homemade dish that tastes even better than store-bought or restaurant versions.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines bold flavors with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping, these tenders are easy to prepare and guaranteed to delight. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try them today and enjoy the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite!

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