If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors with wonderfully crispy textures, you have to try this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe. Imagine tender chicken strips enveloped in a golden, crunchy coating made from Parmesan cheese and zesty ranch seasoning, baked to perfection. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delivering comfort food vibes with a gourmet twist that feels just right for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s simple, satisfying, and every bite bursts with an irresistible blend of savory and tangy goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the vibrant taste and perfect crispiness that make this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe so special. From the nutty Parmesan to the herbaceous ranch seasoning, every component enhances the flavor and texture just right.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (3/4 cup): Adds a nutty, salty crunch that forms the crispy crust for the chicken.
- Ranch dressing seasoning mix (1.0 ounce packet): Brings that classic tangy and herby flavor kick that pairs incredibly well with chicken.
- Chicken tenders (2 pounds): The star protein of this dish, tender and perfect for even crisp coating.
- Salted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Helps the coating stick and adds rich buttery flavor while baking.
- Dried parsley leaves, divided (2 tablespoons): Adds fresh green color and a mild herbaceous finish.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coat of grease. This prep step is essential for ensuring the tenders bake evenly and don’t stick, helping you achieve that coveted crispy crust.
Step 2: Mix the Crispy Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, ranch dressing seasoning mix, and one tablespoon of dried parsley. This blend will be your flavorful, crispy coating, packed with cheese and herbs that cling beautifully to the chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender into the melted butter, letting it soak up just enough to make the coating stick, then thoroughly dredge each piece in the Parmesan-ranch mixture. Place each coated tender onto your prepared baking sheet, arranging them so they’re not crowded, which ensures they crisp evenly.
Step 4: Add Extra Butter for Richness
Drizzle any leftover melted butter over the chicken tenders before placing them in the oven. This step adds extra moisture and richness, making sure the coating becomes perfectly golden and crunchy once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Bake the tenders for 20 to 25 minutes until they are cooked through, the internal temperature reaches safe levels, and the outer crust turns a beautiful golden brown. The aroma at this point is deeply inviting, and you know you are moments away from a delicious meal.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of dried parsley over the cooked tenders right before serving to add a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbaceous touch that completes the dish perfectly.
How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives brightens the plate, while a wedge of lemon on the side can add a zesty contrast that pairs beautifully with the cheesy, herbaceous coating.
Side Dishes
Serve these chicken tenders with crispy baked fries or a fresh green salad for a balanced and hearty meal. Creamy dips like ranch, blue cheese, or even a spicy aioli complement the flavors wonderfully and enhance the overall experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Line them up skewered with cherry tomatoes and peppers for a fun appetizer platter, or pile them on a sandwich with lettuce and tomato for a crunchy, flavorful lunch that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Keep the coating crisp by reheating carefully.
Freezing
This Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange tenders on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a zip-top bag or container to prevent them from sticking together. They can be stored frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For the crispiest results when reheating, use an oven or air fryer set at 350°F (175°C), warming the tenders for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crunchy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders so the cooking time stays consistent and the coating adheres well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your ranch seasoning mix does not contain gluten ingredients, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check the seasoning packet to be sure.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative and using a non-dairy butter substitute, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
What can I use instead of dried parsley?
Fresh parsley can be used if available—just sprinkle it on after baking. Alternatively, dried basil or oregano can add a different but delicious herbaceous note.
How do I make the coating extra crispy?
Make sure to thoroughly coat each tender in melted butter and evenly spread them on the baking sheet without crowding. A hot oven also helps achieve that crispy, golden finish.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe this Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe will become one of your go-to favorites. It’s comfort food elevated with simple ingredients and easy steps, perfect whether you’re feeding the family or impressing friends. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds — that crispy crust and flavorful punch are simply irresistible. Give it a try soon, and enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite.
Print
Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders recipe features juicy chicken tenders coated in a flavorful Parmesan and ranch seasoning mixture, then baked to a golden, crispy perfection. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Cheese and Seasoning Mix
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.0 ounce packet Ranch dressing seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley leaves, divided
Chicken and Coating
- 2 pounds chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, ranch dressing seasoning mix, and 1 tablespoon of dried parsley leaves. This mixture will create a flavorful and crispy coating for the chicken tenders.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the melted salted butter, ensuring it is well coated. Then thoroughly dredge each dipped tender in the Parmesan-ranch mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres well. Arrange the coated tenders evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Butter Drizzle: Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top of the coated chicken tenders to add extra flavor and aid crisping during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are fully cooked through and the coating turns crispy and golden brown. Be sure to check doneness by cutting into a tender or using a meat thermometer (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of dried parsley over the chicken tenders for a fresh herb finish and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute salted butter with unsalted butter plus a pinch of salt if preferred.
- For an extra crispy texture, broil the tenders for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Use fresh parsley if available instead of dried for a brighter flavor and garnish.
- Ensure even coating by pressing the Parmesan mixture firmly onto each tender before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
