Description
Succulent crack chicken tenders elevate classic comfort food with an irresistible blend of crispy coating and creamy ranch seasoning. Packed with bold flavors and easy preparation, these tenders promise a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (lb) / 454 grams chicken tenders
Cheese and Seasoning:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Binding and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ranch seasoning, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika until the mixture forms a smooth, consistent coating.
- Dredge each chicken tender completely in the prepared mixture, ensuring every surface is generously and evenly covered with the seasoned blend.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a parchment-lined or silicone mat-covered baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow proper heat circulation.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, monitoring the chicken’s color transformation to a golden-brown hue and checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, then sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant garnish.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, enjoying the rich, tangy flavors of these ranch-infused chicken tenders.
Notes
- Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version that reduces calories without compromising taste.
- Adjust ranch seasoning intensity by reducing or increasing the mix amount to suit personal spice preferences.
- Use gluten-free ranch mix and almond flour coating for a celiac-friendly alternative that maintains crispy texture.
- Pat chicken tenders completely dry before coating to ensure maximum seasoning adherence and crispier exterior.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 386 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 890 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg