Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Tenders (Baked, Not Fried)
If you’re looking for the ultimate weeknight dinner or game-day snack, these Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the perfect choice. They’re crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor thanks to ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Best of all, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a lighter, family-friendly option that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry Ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the ranch seasoning until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, stir together Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the ranch mayo mixture, coating it thoroughly.
- Press each tender into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with oven fries or mashed potatoes for a full meal.
- Slice and add to a salad or wrap for an easy lunch.
- Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or buffalo sauce.
- Kid-friendly: These tenders make the perfect homemade alternative to fast food chicken strips.
Variations & Substitutions
- Breadcrumbs: Use crushed cornflakes or seasoned breadcrumbs if panko isn’t available.
- Cheese: Mix Parmesan with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix.
- Gluten-Free: Swap panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 27 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
FAQs
Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes! You can coat the chicken in advance, place it on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Arrange the coated raw tenders on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the cook time.
Q: What’s the difference between panko and regular breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crunchier, giving you that extra crispy coating. Regular breadcrumbs work too, but the texture will be slightly different.
These Baked Ranch Parmesan Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you serve them for dinner, as a party appetizer, or in a wrap for lunch, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.