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Chicken tenders have long held a cherished place in American cuisine, recognized as a beloved comfort food that appeals to both young and old. Their tender, juicy bite combined with a satisfying crunch makes them a go-to choice for families and gatherings alike. Among the myriad of ways to prepare chicken tenders, our Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders stand out with their unique flavor profile and unbeatable texture. Infused with the rich taste of buttermilk and seasoned with zesty ranch spices, these homemade tenders elevate this classic dish to new heights, making them a perfect addition to any meal or event.

Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders recipe. Perfect for any occasion, these homemade tenders boast a tender, juicy bite and a satisfying crunch. Marinated in buttermilk and infused with zesty ranch seasoning, they’re a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, customize them with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes for a truly memorable meal everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenderloins

1 cup buttermilk

1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko bread crumbs

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp salt

Cooking spray (or oil for frying)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and half of the ranch seasoning mix until well combined. Submerge the chicken tenderloins into the mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally up to 8 hours, to allow the flavors to fully infuse.

    Prepare the Breading Station: In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, the remaining ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Place the panko bread crumbs in a separate shallow dish for dipping.

      Coat the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. First, dip each tenderloin into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating, then return to the buttermilk briefly, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

        Preheat the Oven (if baking): If you choose to bake the tenders, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top—this allows air circulation to keep the tenders crispy. Alternatively, if frying, heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

          Cook the Chicken:

            - If Baking: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the wire rack. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the tenders halfway through, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

              - If Frying: Carefully add the chicken tenders in batches to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the skillet. Fry for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are evenly golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

                Serve: Allow the chicken tenders to cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious on their own or pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard for extra flavor.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including marinating) | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken tenders on a platter lined with fresh greens or herbs, and include small bowls of dipping sauces for an inviting display.