If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing dish that marries irresistible crunch with bold, savory flavors, look no further than this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe. These tender strips of chicken are coated in a perfectly seasoned blend of crunchy panko breadcrumbs, sharp Parmesan cheese, and zesty ranch spices, then baked to a golden crisp. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast of textures and a burst of flavor that makes this dish a guaranteed winner for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever you just want a little comfort with a lot of flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together effortlessly to create the magic in this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe. Every component plays an important role, ensuring you get that perfect crispy exterior, moist interior, and wonderfully seasoned flavor that makes this dish so special.
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips): The star of the dish, tender and juicy by nature, making them perfect for quick cooking.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch): Provides an airy, crisp coating that delivers satisfying texture with every bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds cheesy, nutty richness that perfectly complements the savory spices.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz): Brings that classic tangy ranch flavor, tying all the seasoning components together beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Offers a mellow garlic punch without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle depth and enhances the overall savoriness.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Gives a mild smoky note and vibrant color for an appetizing look.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: A touch of heat that balances the flavors perfectly.
- 2 large eggs: Creates the essential “glue” that helps the crumb mixture stick firmly to the chicken.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter): Adds richness to the egg wash, aiding in browning and crisping the coating.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A bright pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken tenders will cook evenly and develop that lovely crispy crust. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. This flavorful blend is key to achieving the signature taste and crunchy texture that makes this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe so addictive. Mix everything well to evenly distribute the spices and cheese.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Egg Wash
In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and olive oil (or melted butter) until the mixture is smooth and combined. This helps the breadcrumb coating stick to every inch of the chicken while contributing a golden, luscious finish when baked.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender first into the egg wash, fully coating every side. Then dredge it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well. This two-step coating is the secret to creating that ultra-crispy crust. Place each coated tender on your prepared baking sheet, arranging them so they have space to crisp rather than steam.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the tenders for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure an even golden brown color. The chicken is done when the exterior is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing juicy, safe-to-eat poultry.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
After baking, remove the tenders from the oven and allow them to rest a few minutes. This brief cooling period lets the crust set so your chicken stays crispy when you bite in. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a touch of color and fresh herb flavor. Now your Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe is ready to serve!
How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley add an inviting pop of green and a subtle earthiness to balance the richness of the chicken. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors wonderfully, cutting through the savory crust with a little zing.
Side Dishes
Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders pair perfectly with classic sides that complement their bold flavor and texture. Think creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp garden salad, or even roasted veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs. For a casual touch, crunchy coleslaw or sweet potato fries elevate the meal with contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this recipe into a fun finger food platter for parties by adding small bowls of dipping sauces — ranch dressing, honey mustard, tangy BBQ sauce, or spicy buffalo sauce all work beautifully. You can also slice the tenders thinly for sandwiches or wraps, turning the Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe into a versatile, crowd-pleasing star for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and prevents the coating from becoming soggy too quickly.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these tenders freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their crispy charm.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers with the same crispiness, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving directly, as this tends to make the coating soggy. A toaster oven works wonders for reheating a couple of pieces quickly while preserving their crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice boneless chicken breasts into tender-sized strips to keep the cooking time and texture similar. The coating and seasoning will be just as delicious.
What can I substitute for the ranch seasoning mix?
If you don’t have a packet of ranch seasoning, try using a blend of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This DIY mix will give you that familiar ranch flavor.
Can I fry these chicken tenders instead of baking?
You can! Frying in hot oil will produce an even crispier crust, but baking keeps them lighter and less greasy while still delivering great crunch and flavor.
How do I make the coating stick better?
Make sure to fully coat the chicken in the egg wash and press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the tenders. The oil or melted butter in the egg wash also helps the crumbs adhere better and brown nicely in the oven.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! Just increase the ingredient quantities proportionally and make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. Baking in batches ensures maximum crispiness.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe is like a warm hug on a plate; it’s simple enough for weeknights but special enough to whip up whenever you want to impress your family or friends. The perfect balance of crispiness and creamy ranch-seasoned cheesiness makes every bite a delight. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your most requested dishes — and probably one of your favorites too!
Print
Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders are a deliciously crunchy and flavorful baked chicken recipe, perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty appetizer. Coated with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning, these tenders bake to golden perfection while staying juicy inside. Served with fresh parsley and your favorite dipping sauce, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful crust for the chicken.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and olive oil (or melted butter) until fully blended. This mixture will help the coating stick to the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture ensuring it is completely coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the crumbs adhere well to the surface.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to promote even baking and maximum crispiness.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to cook evenly on both sides. The chicken is done when golden brown, crispy, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cool and Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This helps the coating set and prevents burns when eating.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Make sure to flip the chicken tenders halfway through baking for even browning.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.
- For a dairy-free version, omit Parmesan and choose a dairy-free ranch seasoning mix or substitute with additional spices.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or air fryer for best texture retention.
