Irresistible Ranch Chicken Tenders

Craving a dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor? These Ranch Chicken Tenders are your answer. Coated with a savory blend of ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection, they’re sure to become a household favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, I find this recipe perfect for any day of the week.

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese creates a taste that everyone enjoys.

• Versatile Serving Options: Whether as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, these tenders fit the bill.

• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy schedules.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken tenders
• Mayonnaise
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Crushed crackers (such as Ritz)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.

3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the mayo mixture, ensuring an even coating.

4. Apply the Crust: Roll the coated chicken tenders in the crushed crackers, pressing gently to adhere.

5. Bake: Arrange the tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Serve: Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. From start to finish, it takes about 30-35 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mayo mixture for some heat.

• Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers to accommodate dietary preferences.

• Herb Infusion: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the coating for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Place cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

How can I ensure the coating stays on the chicken?

I make sure to press the crushed crackers firmly onto the mayo-coated chicken to help the coating adhere better.

Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, I often coat the chicken tenders and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 8 hours before baking.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?

I enjoy them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Is it possible to cook these in an air fryer?

Absolutely. I cook them in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, I slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders and follow the same preparation steps.

Conclusion

These Ranch Chicken Tenders offer a delightful combination of crispy texture and savory flavor. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, they’re perfect for any occasion. Give them a try, and they might just become a staple in your recipe collection.