Baked Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders

When it comes to satisfying comfort food, nothing quite compares to crispy chicken tenders. These Baked Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to the fried version. Coated in a flavorful blend of crackers and cheese, and baked to golden perfection, they are perfect for a family dinner or a game day snack. Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: Thanks to the Ritz and cheese crackers, these tenders have an amazing crunch.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese elevates the taste to another level.
• Quick to Prepare: In just about 30 minutes, you can have these tenders ready to serve.
• Kid-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it a great meal for the whole family.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or a fun finger food for parties.

What’s in the Bowl

• 10 chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon Hidden Valley Original Ranch Seasoning & Salad Dressing Mix
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 3/4 cup Ritz crackers (approximately 12 crackers, crushed)
• 3/4 cup cheese crackers (approximately 42 crackers, crushed)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Pinch cayenne (optional)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon milk (or more to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Hidden Valley Original Ranch Seasoning & Salad Dressing Mix

Appliances & Accessories

• Baking Sheet: Ensure it’s lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Mixing Bowls: Use for marinating the chicken and mixing the coating.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Essential for precise ingredient measurements.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining the wet ingredients.

Baked Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders, Made Easy

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken tenderloins in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the buttermilk, and add 1 tablespoon of the Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning along with 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Mix well to ensure all the chicken is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In another bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, crushed cheese crackers, panko breadcrumbs, finely grated cheddar cheese, dry ranch seasoning, paprika, salt, and optional cayenne. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken is done marinating, remove it from the fridge. Dredge each piece in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating. Place the coated tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out evenly.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can flip them halfway through to ensure an even crispiness.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the dipping sauce by mixing the sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of ranch seasoning in a small bowl. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency. Chill until ready to serve.

Better Choices & Swaps

• Buttermilk: Use a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.
• Cracker Types: Feel free to substitute with your favorite crackers for a different flavor profile.
• Panko: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Dipping Sauce: You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Method to the Madness

Creating these Baked Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders is a fun and straightforward process. The marinating step ensures the chicken stays juicy, while the crunchy coating adds a delightful texture. Baking instead of frying not only cuts down on calories but also makes this dish easier to prepare. You’ll appreciate how quickly these tenders come together, and the dipping sauce is a breeze to whip up!

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

These Baked Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm and crispy again. You can also freeze any leftovers; simply place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Questions People Ask

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Just ensure they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.

Is there a way to make these tenders spicier?

Absolutely! You can add more cayenne pepper to the coating, or even include some hot sauce in the buttermilk marinade for an extra kick.

Can I make these in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and coat it ahead of time. Just keep the coated tenders in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

What sides pair well with these chicken tenders?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or even a side of steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

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In Closing

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, these Baked Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders are just the ticket. With a crunchy, cheesy exterior and juicy chicken inside, they deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Paired with a creamy dipping sauce, they are sure to become a staple in your household. So grab those chicken tenderloins and get ready to impress with this easy recipe! Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Baked Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders, and happy cooking!