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Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders

Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders
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Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders are a quick and easy dinner option featuring juicy chicken tenders coated in a crunchy Parmesan and ranch seasoning mix, perfectly fried or baked to golden perfection. This family-friendly recipe delivers a bold savory flavor and crispy texture that stays crunchy even after cooling, making it an irresistible meal for any night of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (fresh or thawed)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for GF version)
  • 1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Binding and Cooking

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (or preferred cooking oil)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat your chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Trim off any excess fat if necessary for even cooking.
  2. Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and any optional spices like garlic powder or paprika. Mix thoroughly to distribute all the flavors evenly.
  3. Dip in Egg Wash: Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl until smooth. Dip each chicken tender fully into the eggs, coating completely to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere properly.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Transfer each egg-coated tender into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure an even and thorough coating of the crispy Parmesan ranch mixture on all sides.
  5. Cook the Tenders: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding, frying each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Drain and Serve: Remove cooked tenders and place on paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness and flavor.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and crispiness.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
  • For extra crunch, double dredge by dipping tenders back in egg and breadcrumbs after the first coating.
  • Let tenders rest on a wire rack after cooking instead of paper towels to keep coating crispy.
  • Maintain oil temperature between 350°F-375°F for optimal cooking and golden crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tenders, crispy chicken, parmesan chicken, ranch seasoning, easy dinner, gluten-free option, fried chicken, baked chicken tenders, kid-friendly dinner

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/crispy-parmesan-ranch-chicken-tenders/