If you are on the hunt for a dish that brings together crunchy, cheesy, and savory flavors all in one bite, then look no further than this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s a perfect crowd-pleaser that marries the tangy zest of ranch seasoning with the rich, nutty Parmesan crust on tender, juicy chicken strips. Whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack, these chicken tenders offer a simple yet irresistible way to impress everyone at the table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe comes to life with just a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering incredible taste and irresistible texture. From the sharp sharpness of Parmesan to the buttery richness that helps seal in moisture, every component is essential.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, cheesy crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- 1.0 ounce packet Ranch dressing seasoning mix: Brings that classic tangy ranch flavor that makes these tenders uniquely delicious.
- 2 pounds chicken tenders: Naturally tender and perfect for quick cooking with a great texture.
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted: Helps the seasoning adhere and lends a rich buttery flavor while keeping the chicken juicy.
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley leaves, divided: Adds a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note to brighten the dish.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Area
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures that your tenders bake evenly without any mess.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan-Ranch Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, the ranch dressing seasoning mix, and one tablespoon of dried parsley. This mixture will give your chicken tenders that iconic crispy, flavorful coating that’s so addictive. Mixing them well makes sure each bite is full of that punchy ranch-parmesan goodness.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender in the melted butter, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, thoroughly press the tender into the Parmesan-ranch mixture so it’s completely covered. Place the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet. This double step creates a flavorful barrier that seals in moisture and crisps up to golden perfection.
Step 4: Add Extra Butter for Crispiness
Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the tenders on the baking sheet. This final buttery touch is the secret to making the Parmesan coating crisp up beautifully, adding extra flavor and that irresistible golden finish.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are cooked through and the coating has turned a gorgeous golden brown. The timing ensures the chicken stays juicy on the inside while achieving that satisfying crisp on the outside.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of dried parsley over the tenders. This pop of fresh green not only brightens up the presentation but also adds a subtle fresh flavor that balances the richness.
How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your presentation, add a few sprigs of fresh parsley or chopped chives on top. A little lemon wedge on the side can also brighten the flavors when squeezed over. These simple garnishes turn your plate into a feast for the eyes and palate alike.
Side Dishes
These chicken tenders shine when paired with crispy fries, a fresh garden salad, or even creamy coleslaw. For a low-carb option, roasted vegetables or zoodles work beautifully. No matter what you serve alongside, the key is to complement the tangy and cheesy chicken without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe into a wrap with crunchy lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. They also make fantastic sliders or can be chopped up for a flavorful addition to a hearty grain bowl. The versatility of this recipe means you can get creative with how you present and enjoy it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken tenders store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a convenient and delicious next-day lunch or snack that retains much of its crispiness if reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken tenders by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen tenders stay good for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prep or unexpected cravings.
Reheating
To bring the crunch back, reheat leftover tenders in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to soften the coating and lose that signature crisp.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips and follow the same coating process, but tenders are naturally more tender and cook faster, so keep an eye on the baking time.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if your ranch seasoning is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since there is no flour or breadcrumbs used. Always check labels to be safe.
Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Definitely! Air fryer cooking will help achieve an even crispier coating. Cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What dipping sauces work best with these tenders?
Ranch dressing is an obvious classic, but honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo also pair wonderfully with the tangy, cheesy flavors.
Can I use fresh parsley instead of dried?
Yes, fresh parsley makes a great garnish or can be mixed into the coating for a brighter, fresher herb flavor. Use about twice the amount of fresh parsley compared to dried.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels like a warm, cheesy hug with every bite, you truly cannot go wrong with this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever made chicken tenders any other way. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy one of the tastiest crunch experiences you can bake!
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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
These Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken coated in a flavorful blend of Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, and parsley. Baked to golden perfection with a buttery crust, they offer a crispy texture without deep frying, making them a perfect family-friendly meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 2 pounds chicken tenders
Coating
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.0 ounce packet Ranch dressing seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley leaves, divided
Butter
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and 1 tablespoon of dried parsley leaves, mixing thoroughly to create an even coating blend.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated, then thoroughly dredge it in the Parmesan-ranch mixture so the coating sticks well. Place each coated tender on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour any remaining melted butter evenly over the chicken tenders on the baking sheet to enhance crispiness and flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the coating turns crispy and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of dried parsley on top for a fresh color and flavor boost before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes while watching closely to prevent burning.
- You can substitute dried parsley with fresh parsley if preferred, but use slightly more as fresh herbs are less potent.
- Make sure the chicken tenders are of uniform size for even cooking.
- Allow chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
