Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders – Crispy, golden, and packed with bold ranch flavor! These tenders are so addictive, you’ll never want takeout again!
It all started when I had a leftover packet of ranch seasoning and some chicken strips to cook — and the magic that happened was way beyond my expectations. The crust was perfectly crisp, the flavor was bold but balanced, and every bite was juicy inside. These chicken tenders became an instant family favorite, and now they’re a go-to for game nights, picnics, and even lunchbox surprises.
Ingredients:
- 1½ lbs chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil spray (for air fryer or baking)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix buttermilk and half the ranch seasoning. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, remaining ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (or air fryer to 390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the air fryer basket.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place chicken tenders on the baking sheet or air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes (flipping halfway) or air fry for 12–14 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Serve with ranch dip, hot sauce, or your favorite side!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————–|————–|
| Calories | ~290 kcal |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 590mg |
Printable Summary
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenders – 1½ lbs | 1. Marinate chicken in buttermilk + ranch mix (30 mins). |
| Buttermilk – 1 cup | 2. Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, seasonings in a bowl. |
| Ranch mix – 1 packet | 3. Preheat oven/air fryer, line tray or basket. |
| Panko breadcrumbs – 1½ cups | 4. Coat chicken in dry mix. |
| Parmesan – ½ cup | 5. Bake (20–25 min) or air fry (12–14 min) until golden. |
| Garlic powder – ½ tsp | 6. Serve with dips or sides. |
| Paprika – ½ tsp | |
| Salt & pepper | |
| Oil spray |
FAQs
Q: Can I make this without buttermilk?
A: Yes, you can use regular milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice as a substitute.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely! Freeze after breading or after cooking. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
Q: What dip goes best with this?
A: Ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo pair deliciously.
Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs?
A: You can, but panko gives a much crispier texture.
