Save Experience the ultimate crunch with these Crispy Panko Ranch Chicken Tenders. This easy, golden-baked dish combines the savory, herb-filled zing of ranch seasoning with the light, airy texture of panko breadcrumbs. Whether you are whipping up a quick weeknight dinner for the family or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, these tenders are guaranteed to be a hit.
Save Baked to perfection in just 35 minutes, these chicken strips offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. The secret lies in the double coating of ranch seasoning and panko, ensuring every bite is as delicious as it is crunchy.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 ½ lbs (680 g) chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- Breading: 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs, 1 packet (1 oz / 28 g) ranch seasoning mix, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Wet Coating: 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy milk)
- For Serving (optional): Ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce, Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with nonstick spray.
- Step 2: Wet Coating
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk to make the wet coating.
- Step 3: Dry Mix
- In another shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning mix, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Step 4: Dry the Chicken
- Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure the breading adheres properly.
- Step 5: Breading Process
- Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 6: Layout
- Arrange breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Step 7: Final Touch
- Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Step 8: Baking
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Step 9: Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and your favorite dipping sauce.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra crispiness, place tenders on a wire rack set over the baking sheet; this allows hot air to circulate underneath the chicken. Additionally, using a light mist of cooking spray before baking is the key to achieving that beautiful golden-brown color.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free panko and a certified gluten-free ranch seasoning. If you prefer spicier tenders, simply add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the panko mixture. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free ranch mix and non-dairy milk.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these hot alongside a bowl of creamy ranch dressing or honey mustard for dipping. They pair beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine for adults or a refreshing sparkling lemonade for the kids.
Save These Crispy Panko Ranch Chicken Tenders are a simple yet impressive way to elevate a classic comfort food. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Recipe Guide
- → What makes these chicken tenders crispy?
The panko breadcrumb coating creates extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. Panko's larger, flakier structure air-bakes beautifully, and spraying the tops with cooking oil before baking enhances the golden crispy texture.
- → Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular panko breadcrumbs and ranch seasoning mix with certified gluten-free alternatives. The preparation method remains exactly the same, and you'll still achieve that satisfying crunch.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The tenders are done when the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Cutting into one tender should reveal opaque, fully cooked meat throughout.
- → Can I air fry these instead of baking?
Absolutely. Arrange tenders in a single layer in your air fryer at 400°F and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
- → What dipping sauces work best with these tenders?
Classic ranch dressing is an obvious choice, but honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy buffalo sauce pair wonderfully. For a lighter option, try a simple lemon-herb yogurt dip.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore the crispy texture rather than microwaving.