If you love the perfect balance of crunchy texture and savory flavor, the Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe is your next kitchen obsession. This dish brings together tender chicken strips encrusted in a golden, crispy coating made from Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, and panko breadcrumbs, creating an irresistible combo that’s both crowd-pleasing and easy to whip up. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a game day snack, these chicken tenders deliver that satisfying crunch and zesty tang with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the sharpness of Parmesan to the creamy zest of ranch seasoning, plus the crunch of panko, this simple lineup turns ordinary chicken tenders into a memorable treat.
- 1 lb chicken tenders: The star of the dish, tender and juicy, perfect for quick cooking and crisp coating.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Provides that light, airy crispiness that makes the chicken irresistibly crunchy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty depth that marries beautifully with the ranch flavors.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz): Brings in the iconic tangy, herbaceous punch that defines this recipe’s unique taste.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes with subtle, warming garlic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth to the coating.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Delivers a mild smoky warmth and beautiful color to the crust.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Gives a slight kick to keep the flavors lively without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as the binding agent to help the coating stick perfectly to each tender.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter): Enriches the egg wash adding moisture and promoting a golden, crisp finish.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A burst of fresh green color and herby brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it lightly with cooking spray. This simple prep ensures your tenders won’t stick and will cook evenly to a crisp shell.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic and onion powders, paprika, and black pepper. This blend is the heart of your Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe, delivering that flavorful crust that’s packed with savory, tangy goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together with olive oil or melted butter until smooth and well combined. This mixture will help bind the savory coating to the chicken tenders perfectly.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
One by one, dip each chicken tender into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully covered. Then, dredge the tender through the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly. This is where the magic begins—each tender gets enveloped in a flavorful, crunchy jacket.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Give them a little breathing room so they can crisp up beautifully on all sides without steaming.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Bake the tenders for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to brown evenly. You’ll want to watch for that gorgeous golden color and confirm the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re perfectly cooked, juicy on the inside, and crunchy on the outside.
Step 7: Let Them Rest
After pulling the crispy tenders from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes to lock in juices and cool down just enough for a comfortable bite.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you have it on hand, and pair these chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for an extra boost of flavor.
How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic, bright addition that adds a little herbaceous pop and vibrant color. You can also scatter some extra grated Parmesan on top for an elegant touch that amps up the cheesiness.
Side Dishes
These tenders are incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with crispy fries, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad. For a lighter meal, try steamed veggies or coleslaw that balance the richness of the chicken without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe on a platter lined with parchment and surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces to make it feel like a festive gathering appetizer. Alternatively, stuff them into sandwiches or wraps with fresh lettuce and tomato for a fun twist on lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their crunch and fresh flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze these delicious tenders, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making meal prep a breeze.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or so. This method helps restore their crispy outside, far better than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice chicken breasts into strips roughly the size of tenders and follow the same coating and baking process. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal. The flavor and crunch will remain just as wonderful.
Can I fry these instead of baking?
You can definitely pan-fry or deep-fry these tenders for an even crispier exterior, but baking keeps them lighter and less oil-heavy, which many find preferable.
What dipping sauces go best with Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Ranch dressing is a natural match, but honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy Sriracha mayo make fantastic companions to elevate the flavor experience.
How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink inside.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about biting into a crispy, flavorful chicken tender that’s been lovingly homemade. I can’t recommend the Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe enough for anyone looking to bring a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish to their table. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and just the right balance of crunchy and tender that keeps everyone coming back for more. Give it a try and watch this recipe become a fast favorite in your kitchen!
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Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and crunchy baked chicken dish perfect for a quick family meal or party appetizer. Tender chicken strips are coated in a savory mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning, then baked to golden perfection for a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all seasonings.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and olive oil (or melted butter) until well combined, creating a coating liquid that helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick well for a crispy crust.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching for even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Flip the tenders halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. They should be golden brown, crispy on the outside, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute and avoid burning your mouth.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- For best crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute olive oil with melted butter in the egg wash for a richer flavor.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Flipping the tenders halfway through baking helps achieve an even golden crust.
- These chicken tenders can be prepared ahead and baked fresh when needed.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces to suit different tastes.
