Description

These Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and crunchy baked chicken snack or meal option. Coated in a tangy homemade ranch batter and toasted panko bread crumbs, they bake to golden perfection for a healthier alternative to fried tenders. Perfect for serving with your favorite dipping sauces or freezing for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

1 lb boneless chicken tenderloins

Batter Mixture:

1 egg
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
3 tablespoons Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix (1 oz packet)
2 tablespoons dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

Breading:

1 1/4 cup Panko bread crumbs

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the chicken tenders.
Toast Panko Breadcrumbs: Spread panko bread crumbs evenly on the prepared baking sheet, lightly spray them with oil using a misto or cooking spray, then bake for 5-7 minutes until they are toasted and golden, providing extra crispiness.
Prepare Batter: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, homemade ranch dressing mix, dijon mustard, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
Coat Chicken: Add the chicken tenderloins to the batter bowl and toss them thoroughly to ensure each piece is completely coated with the flavorful mixture.
Setup for Breading: Remove the toasted panko bread crumbs from the oven and transfer them to a shallow dish. Leave the parchment paper on the baking sheet for later use.
Bread the Chicken: Using tongs, dredge each battered chicken tender through the toasted panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure a full, even coating on all sides.
Bake Chicken Tenders: Place the fully coated chicken tenders onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Serve or Store: Once baked, enjoy the crispy ranch chicken tenders with your favorite homemade condiments, or allow them to cool before freezing for up to 6 months for future meals.

Notes

For best crunch, ensure panko bread crumbs are well toasted before coating the chicken.
You can substitute homemade ranch dressing mix with a store-bought packet if desired.
Use a cooking spray to lightly mist the panko crumbs before toasting for an even golden color.
Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
These tenders freeze well; store in an airtight container or bag for up to 6 months.
Consider serving with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Crispy chicken tenders, ranch chicken, baked chicken, panko crusted chicken, homemade ranch seasoning