Description
Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or main dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party snack. Coated in a savory mixture of ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection, these chicken tenders offer a delightful combination of crunchy texture and zesty flavor without frying.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
For Baking
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk and ranch seasoning mix. Add the chicken tenders, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse and tenderize the meat.
- Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will provide a crispy and flavorful coating for the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken tender from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge the chicken tenders in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well on all sides.
- Arrange for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack set over a baking sheet for even crispiness. Drizzle or brush the tenders lightly with olive oil or melted butter to promote browning.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness. The chicken should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating golden and crispy.
- Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. These delicious Ranch Parmesan Chicken Tenders pair well with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use a wire rack on the baking sheet so heat circulates around the chicken.
- Make sure to measure the internal temperature of chicken to avoid undercooking.
- These tenders can also be made in an air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Substitute dairy-free Parmesan and buttermilk alternatives to make it lactose-free if needed.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
