Go Back
In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the appeal of crispy ranch chicken tenders. Their golden, crunchy exterior paired with tender, juicy chicken makes them a favorite among both adults and children. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings, or a satisfying snack for those late-night cravings, these chicken tenders stand out for their irresistible flavor and texture. This article will not only provide you with a delightful recipe but also delve into the ingredients, techniques, and the benefits of making this dish at home.

Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders

Discover the ultimate comfort food with crispy ranch chicken tenders! This delightful recipe features juicy chicken coated in a crunchy, golden crust enhanced by flavorful ranch seasoning. Perfect for satisfying late-night cravings, quick family dinners, or appetizers at gatherings, these tenders are easy to make at home. Learn about the essential ingredients, marination techniques, and frying tips to achieve the perfect tender texture. Enjoy the irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 packet ranch seasoning mix

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup ranch dressing (for dipping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and half of the ranch seasoning mix. Add the chicken tenders to the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

    Prepare the Coating: In a separate shallow dish, mix together the flour, remaining ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt. In another shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.

      Coat the Tenders: Remove the marinated chicken tenders from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the flour-coated chicken into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere well.

        Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden brown.

          Fry the Tenders: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

            Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

              Dipping Sauce: Serve the crispy ranch chicken tenders hot with ranch dressing on the side for dipping.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes (including marinating) | 4 servings