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Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 32 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to overnight marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders are a deliciously crunchy and flavorful main course perfect for family dinners. Marinated in buttermilk and ranch seasoning, then coated in a savory blend of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices before being baked to golden perfection. These tenders are easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix, divided

Breading

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Finishing

  • Nonstick cooking spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine chicken tenders, buttermilk, and half of the ranch seasoning mix. Toss everything to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight to deepen the flavor.
  2. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Mix the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, the remaining ranch seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
  5. Arrange and Prepare for Baking: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared wire rack spaced evenly apart. Lightly spray the tenders with nonstick cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to promote crisping while baking.
  6. Bake the Tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the tenders once halfway through. Bake until the coating is golden and crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Optional Finish: For an extra crispy finish, broil the tenders for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking. Alternatively, you can cook the tenders in an air fryer at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.
  8. Serve: Serve the crispy Parmesan ranch chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, broil the tenders for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
  • These tenders can also be cooked in the air fryer at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, providing a quicker and equally crispy alternative.
  • Great served with ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce for dipping.

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Find it online: https://tasty.cozyfamilydinners.com/crispy-parmesan-ranch-chicken-tenders-recipe/