Name: Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken tenderloins; 1/4 cup all purpose flour; 2 eggs; 1/3 cup bread crumbs (unseasoned); 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 2 tbs ranch seasoning ((or one envelope))

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There’s something magical about crispy, flavorful chicken tenders, and Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders are my personal favorite! Picture a cozy evening when you want something easy yet delicious for dinner. These tenders are the perfect blend of juicy chicken, zesty ranch seasoning, and a crunchy coating. I remember the first time I made these; the aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible, drawing my family in like moths to a flame! It’s a go-to recipe that never fails to impress, whether it’s a weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
27 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
330 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Grater, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why This Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders Stands Out

1. Flavorful Coating

One of the first things that stands out about Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders is the incredible crunch you get from the bread crumbs and the delicious ranch seasoning. The combination creates a tantalizing crust that elevates the tender chicken underneath. This is not just another chicken dish; it’s packed with flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

2. Easy to Prepare

I love that these tenders are so straightforward to make. With simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can whip up a batch in no time. The kids can even lend a hand! I often find cooking with them fosters a sense of teamwork and creativity in the kitchen.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile. They work wonderfully as a main course for dinner, but they’re also perfect for parties, game nights, or even as a snack. Serve them with your favorite dip, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy!

4. Healthier Option

By baking instead of frying, you’re making a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. The baked method allows for less oil, so you can indulge without the guilt. It’s a win-win situation that provides a much healthier version of your favorite comfort food.

5. Customizable

Another great thing about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite seasonings to the breading. Want a little kick? Consider adding some cayenne or paprika. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun recipe to personalize.

What You Need for Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

When it comes to the ingredients for Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders, each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of taste and texture. The key players include fresh chicken, crunchy bread crumbs, and zesty ranch seasoning. Together, these ingredients work in harmony to create a satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.

2 lbs chicken tenderloins: The star of the dish, these tenderloins cook up juicy and delicious.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps create a beautiful crust when coated on the chicken.
2 eggs: Essential for binding the flour and breadcrumbs to the chicken.
1/3 cup unseasoned bread crumbs: Adds crunchiness and texture to the tenders.
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Provides a rich flavor and enhances the overall taste.
2 tbsp ranch seasoning: The secret ingredient that gives these tenders their distinctive flavor.

How to Prepare Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

Making Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders is as easy as pie! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that everyone will love. Let’s get started on this crunchy, flavorful journey.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.
In a shallow dish, mix together the bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning. This mixture will create the flavorful coating for our chicken.
In two separate shallow dishes, place the flour and eggs. This is your dredging station! Make sure the dishes are wide enough for easy dipping.
Take each chicken tenderloin and first dredge it in the flour. This layer will help the eggs stick better.
Next, dip the floured tenderloin into the eggs, ensuring it is completely coated. This is crucial for the breadcrumbs to adhere properly.
Finally, roll the tenderloin in the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. You want a nice, even coating.
Place each coated tender on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re about an inch apart.
Once all the tenders are coated, it’s time to bake them! Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. You can serve them immediately or allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Check: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It needs to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Coating Technique: For an extra crispy texture, double dredge the chicken by repeating the flour and egg steps before coating it in the breadcrumbs.
Resting Time: Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps them retain moisture.
Better Breading: Using freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-packaged can enhance the flavor and texture of the coating.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to customize your Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders, here are some fun ideas to consider!

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the breading mix for a kick of heat.
Cheese Variations: Try using different kinds of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique twist.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the bread crumb mixture for added flavor.
Dip Pairings: Serve with your favorite sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ for an extra flavor pop.
Meal Prep: Make a larger batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.

Serving Ideas for Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

Now that you’ve made these delicious Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders, let’s explore some serving ideas that will elevate your dining experience!

Side Dishes: Pair them with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or crispy fries. They make a great addition to any meal.
Family Dinner: These tenders work wonderfully for family dinners where everyone can pick their favorite dipping sauce.
Game Day Snacks: Perfect for game day, serve them with a variety of dips and veggie platters to keep your guests satisfied.
Lunch Box: They’re also great cold, making them ideal for kids’ lunch boxes.
Picnic Treat: Take them to your next picnic; they’re easy to pack and always a hit!
Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, serve them with a refreshing coleslaw, while in winter, a hearty mashed potato goes perfectly.

FAQ

If you’re looking to add some heat to your Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders, consider mixing in some cayenne pepper or chili powder into the bread crumb mixture. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor significantly. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha or spicy ranch to complement the dish.

Absolutely! While tenderloins are great for their tenderness and quick cooking time, you can use chicken breast cut into strips instead. Just keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook through, so make sure to check the internal temperature to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

There are countless dipping sauces that go perfectly with Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders. Classic options include ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli. For a fun twist, try serving them with a homemade buffalo sauce for a little extra kick!

Yes! You can prep the Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders ahead of time. After coating them, store them in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them into the preheated oven without the need to thaw. This makes them a fantastic choice for meal prep!

Conclusion

Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders are truly a standout dish, combining crispy texture with zesty flavors that make them irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. I encourage you to give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your household!