Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

These Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, packed with flavor from the perfect combination of Parmesan and ranch seasoning. They’re an ideal meal for busy nights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried tenders without sacrificing flavor. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch, and enjoy a crispy, golden treat that will have the whole family coming back for more!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 egg
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking spray.
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.
In another bowl, beat the egg and add the olive oil. Stir to combine.
Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

What makes these chicken tenders so special is their perfect combination of flavors and textures. The Parmesan cheese adds a savory, slightly nutty flavor, while the ranch seasoning brings a tangy, creamy kick. When baked, the breadcrumbs give the tenders that perfect golden-brown crunch on the outside, while the chicken inside remains juicy and tender. Unlike deep-fried chicken tenders, these baked tenders are lighter without compromising on flavor or texture.

These tenders are not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and basic steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes. And because they are baked instead of fried, you can enjoy a healthier version of this popular comfort food. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish with a side of vegetables or as a snack for game day, they’re bound to be a hit.

Healthier Alternative to Fried Chicken Tenders

While deep-fried chicken tenders are crispy and delicious, they’re also high in calories and unhealthy fats. Baking the chicken tenders eliminates the need for excess oil, making this recipe a much healthier alternative. By using olive oil to lightly coat the chicken and baking them in the oven, you can achieve the same crispy texture without all the grease.

Baked chicken tenders also tend to be less messy, which makes them a great option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Since they don’t require frying in a pan, there’s less splattering and less cleanup afterward. You can serve these tenders with a variety of dipping sauces, from ranch to honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo, for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Perfect for a Variety of Occasions

One of the best things about these Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders is their versatility. You can serve them for a casual weeknight dinner, as a party appetizer, or even as part of a larger spread for a holiday meal. They’re great for all ages, making them a perfect dish for families with kids. If you’re hosting a gathering or a game day party, these tenders are a fantastic choice because they’re easy to prepare in large batches and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces.

For a complete meal, you can pair these chicken tenders with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes. They also pair perfectly with some crispy fries for the ultimate comfort food experience. If you’re trying to make the meal even healthier, you can serve them with a side of steamed broccoli or a quinoa salad for a light and satisfying meal.

Customization Options for Different Diets

Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s easy to customize based on dietary preferences and restrictions. If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the regular panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast, which will still give you that savory flavor.

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. This will give the tenders a deliciously crispy coating without the carbs, making them a perfect keto-friendly option. You can also add herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste, such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or paprika, to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Serve Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

These baked chicken tenders are a great option for a variety of occasions, whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a casual lunch, or as a snack for a party. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

As a main dish: Serve the tenders with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. This makes for a simple yet satisfying dinner option.
As an appetizer: Serve the tenders on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce. They’re perfect for parties and gatherings.
For meal prep: These tenders are ideal for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch and store them in the refrigerator for several days, making them a convenient and tasty option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
With fries or chips: For a classic comfort food meal, pair the tenders with a side of crispy fries or homemade potato chips. Add a side of coleslaw for a delicious Southern-style dinner.
On a sandwich: Turn these tenders into a chicken sandwich by placing them on a bun with some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments. This is a great option for lunch or a more casual dinner.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

To ensure that your Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken tenders that perfect crunch. You can find panko breadcrumbs at most grocery stores, and they come in both plain and seasoned varieties.
Don’t skip the egg wash: The egg wash helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken, creating a crispy coating. Be sure to coat each chicken tender thoroughly before breading.
Make sure the chicken is fully coated: When dipping the chicken tenders in the breadcrumb mixture, make sure they’re fully coated for the best texture. Press gently on the breadcrumbs to make sure they stick well.
Bake at the right temperature: Make sure to bake the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for a perfectly golden brown exterior. This high temperature ensures that the coating crisps up without overcooking the chicken inside.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will guarantee that the chicken is fully cooked while remaining juicy and tender.

Conclusion

Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. With a crispy coating of Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, and panko breadcrumbs, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite. The recipe is simple to prepare, customizable for different dietary preferences, and perfect for a variety of occasions, from weeknight dinners to party appetizers.

By baking instead of frying, you’ll enjoy all the flavor and crunch without the extra calories or mess. Whether you serve them with a side of vegetables, dipping sauces, or even fries, these tenders are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any meal. So, next time you’re in the mood for some crispy chicken, give these Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders a try—you won’t be disappointed!