Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the irresistible crunch of perfectly fried chicken with the zesty flavor of ranch seasoning. This dish has gained immense popularity in households across the United States, not only for its mouthwatering taste but also for its versatility. Whether served as a main course, a party appetizer, or a quick snack, these tenders are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
The history of chicken tenders dates back to the 1970s, but the addition of ranch seasoning elevates this dish to new heights, making it a staple in many American kitchens. People love crispy ranch chicken tenders for their satisfying texture and the way they effortlessly blend savory and tangy flavors. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Join us as we explore the simple steps to create your own batch of these delicious tenders that are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Preparing the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the chicken tenders to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
Preparing the Breading Station
- While the chicken is marinating, set up your breading station. You will need three shallow dishes:
- In the first dish, add the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
- In the second dish, pour in the remaining buttermilk mixture from the marinated chicken.
- In the third dish, add the breadcrumbs.
- Make sure to have a clean plate or tray ready to place the breaded chicken tenders on.
Breading the Chicken Tenders
- Remove the chicken tenders from the refrigerator. Let excess buttermilk drip off before breading.
- Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully covered. Shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured chicken tender into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, roll the chicken tender in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared plate or tray.
- Repeat the process for all chicken tenders until they are all breaded.
Cooking the Chicken Tenders
- In a large skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is ready.
- Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
- Fry the chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, use tongs to remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken tenders, adding more oil to the pan if necessary.
Serving the Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders
- Once all the chicken tenders are cooked, arrange them on a serving platter.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
- For a complete meal, pair the chicken tenders with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh garden salad.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- If you have leftovers, allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to
Conclusion:
In summary, these Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their mealtime experience. With their perfectly seasoned, crunchy exterior and juicy, tender chicken inside, they are sure to become a family favorite. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless serving suggestions; pair them with a side of creamy coleslaw, crispy fries, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue, or even a spicy sriracha mayo, to add your personal touch. Dont hesitate to make this recipe your own by incorporating your favorite herbs or spices into the ranch coating, or even trying out different proteins like turkey or tofu for a unique twist. Whether youre preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, these Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders are sure to impress. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with us! Your feedback and variations can inspire others to enjoy this delicious dish. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and dont forget to let us know how your Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders turn out! Happy cooking! Print
Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Meal
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders are marinated in a buttermilk and ranch seasoning blend, then breaded and fried to a golden crisp. Ideal for a quick dinner or as a party appetizer, they are sure to please everyone with their delicious flavor and crunchy texture.
Ingredients
Scale- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until well combined. Add the chicken tenders to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
- Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, mix the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). In the second dish, pour in the remaining buttermilk mixture from the marinated chicken. In the third dish, add the breadcrumbs. Have a clean plate or tray ready for the breaded chicken.
- Remove the chicken tenders from the refrigerator. Let excess buttermilk drip off before breading. Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully covered. Shake off any excess flour. Dip the floured chicken tender into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Roll the chicken tender in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure adherence. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared plate or tray. Repeat for all chicken tenders.
- In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Use tongs to remove the chicken tenders and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining chicken tenders.
- Arrange the cooked chicken tenders on a serving platter. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Pair with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
