This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Tender recipe is a fun and tasty way to enjoy chicken! With simple ranch seasoning and a crispy coating, these tenders are great for dipping!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Tenders: Use fresh or thawed chicken tenders for the best texture. You can also substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips if tenders aren’t available.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds fantastic flavor! If you’re out of ranch, you can blend your own using dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They create a crispy texture! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they may not be as crunchy.
Parmesan Cheese: I love adding this for extra flavor! If you’re dairy-free, try a dairy-free cheese substitute or skip it altogether.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
To achieve that crispy coating on your chicken tenders, follow these steps carefully:
- Start by preheating your oven properly to get the right crunch.
- Make sure each chicken tender is fully covered in the flour mix before dipping in the egg and then the panko. This layers the flavor and texture.
- Press the panko mix onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well. The more panko, the crunchier!
- Don’t skip the cooking spray—it helps to crisp them up even more without frying.
- Flipping halfway through baking ensures an even, golden color.
Enjoy making these tasty chicken tenders! They’re quick, easy, and perfect for any meal.
How to Make Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Tenders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes for baking. So, you can have crispy baked ranch chicken tenders ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Coatings:
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the two eggs until they’re well mixed. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Coat the Chicken Tenders:
Take each chicken tender and first dip it into the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated. Finally, dredge the tender into the panko and cheese mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs stick.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer. Be sure to give them a bit of space so they can get crispy!
5. Bake the Tenders:
Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray to help them brown nicely. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping them over halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Let Rest and Serve:
Once they are done, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve these delicious ranch chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy your flavorful and crispy baked ranch chicken tenders—perfect for dinner or a snack!
FAQ for Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Tenders
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw them in the fridge or by submerging them in cold water before following the recipe instructions. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture while baking.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work as a substitute. However, keep in mind that panko typically gives a crispier texture. For a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders through the coating steps and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them unbaked; just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
