Print

Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders

Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders

Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders combine bold ranch seasoning, savory Parmesan cheese, and a perfectly crunchy panko coating for a quick, family-friendly meal. These golden-baked tenders are juicy inside and crispy outside, ideal for weeknight dinners or party appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 lb fresh skinless chicken tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Bread Crumb Mixture

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably fresh)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning (about 1 oz)

Cooking

  • Olive oil or cooking spray, for drizzling or spraying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs mixed with garlic powder, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning packet.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash to help the coating stick, then press firmly into the Parmesan ranch breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even and thick coating all over.
  3. Arrange for Cooking: Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil on each tender to promote browning and crispness while baking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to ensure even golden crispness and that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and juicy inside.
  5. Let Them Rest: Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to keep the inside juicy and allow the coating to firm up, maintaining crispness.

Notes

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • Season each layer of the breading process for maximum flavor depth.
  • Let tenders rest after baking to lock in juices and ensure a crispy crust.
  • Fresh grated Parmesan provides better texture and richer flavor than pre-grated.
  • For extra crispiness, consider air frying instead of baking with a light spray of oil.
  • To keep tenders crispy after cooking, rest them on a wire rack and avoid covering to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tenders, crispy chicken, Parmesan chicken, ranch chicken, baked chicken tenders, appetizer, family-friendly, quick dinner