Save to Pinterest Experience the perfect crunch with these Crispy Panko Ranch Chicken Tenders. By combining the zesty, herby notes of ranch seasoning with the light texture of panko breadcrumbs, these tenders offer a gourmet twist on a family classic. Oven-baked to golden perfection, they provide a healthier alternative to deep-frying without sacrificing that satisfying snap in every bite.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking for the perfect game-day snack, these tenders are sure to be a hit. The secret lies in the wire rack, which allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring it stays crispy on all sides.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 ½ lbs (680 g) chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- Coating: 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs, 1 oz (28 g) ranch seasoning mix, ½ tsp paprika, ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Wet Mixture: 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp milk
- For Baking: Nonstick cooking spray or 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place a wire rack on top and lightly spray with nonstick spray.
- Step 2
- In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs and milk together until well combined.
- Step 3
- In a separate shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Step 4
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Dip each tender in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Step 5
- Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared rack, spacing them apart. Lightly spray the tops with nonstick spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Step 6
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 7
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the panko adheres well, always pat the chicken dry before dipping it into the egg wash. For the absolute best results, use a wire rack; it prevents the bottom of the tenders from getting soggy while baking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the panko mix. For dietary needs, you can easily make these gluten-free by using gluten-free panko and a gluten-free ranch seasoning packet.
Serviervorschläge
These versatile tenders pair beautifully with a variety of dips. Serve them alongside honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or an extra side of creamy ranch for the perfect finish.
Save to Pinterest With their golden crust and juicy interior, these ranch-infused tenders are a reliable crowd-pleaser that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your dining table.
Questions & Answers About This Recipe
- → How do I get the crispiest coating?
Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow air circulation underneath. Spray the tops with oil before baking and flip halfway through cooking time. The high oven temperature of 425°F helps achieve maximum crunchiness.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and coat the tenders up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator on the wire rack. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cooking from cold.
- → What dipping sauces work best?
Classic ranch dressing is perfect for complementing the seasoning. Honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or buffalo sauce also pair beautifully. The tenders are flavorful enough to enjoy plain as well.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely. Slice chicken breasts into even strips, approximately 1-inch wide. Pound slightly to even thickness if needed. Adjust cooking time based on thickness—typically 18-25 minutes total.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat in a 400°F oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness. Microwave heating will make the coating soggy.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and check that your ranch seasoning is gluten-free. Many brands offer GF alternatives that work perfectly in this coating.