These Air fryer ranch chicken tenders are seasoned with ranch and panko crumbs and cooked in the air fryer for a perfectly juicy, perfectly crunchy-coated dinner that your kids will love!
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It’s no secret that Ranch Chicken Tenders made in an air fryer taste amazing. My love for the air fryer is strong, and for good reason!
Food simply tastes better when cooked in an air fryer, especially chicken tenders. Breaded chicken strips are popular at fairs and restaurants because they are deep-fried, retaining moisture and tenderness.
The same magic happens with air frying! Every time we make these, we can’t stop raving about how delicious they are.
Ingredients for Ranch Chicken Tenders
Chicken- Obviously, I used chicken tenders, so that’s what my time is based on. You could also get boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them down into smaller pieces. Just be aware that the time might change based on the size of your chicken.
Parmesan- I added grated parmesan to my topping because I love the flavor it adds and the way it melts into the other topping. You do not need to add it, although you might need a little extra panko if you don’t.
Panko Bread Crumbs- These are my favorite to use just because of the crunch they give. You can use seasoned panko or regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you prefer.
Ranch- I used 2 tablespoons of homemade ranch dressing seasoning, but you could also use one packet of ranch seasoning mix.
Butter- Keep it to real butter, friends. Margarine is not the same thing. It doesn’t really matter if you use salted or unsalted for this recipe.
Directions for Ranch Chicken Tenders
You’ll need two separate bowls for this recipe.
In bowl #1, add your butter and melt it in the microwave.
In mixing bowl #2, mix together the parmesan, panko bread crumbs, and ranch seasoning.
Dip a chicken tender into the butter, making sure to coat all sides. Then transfer it to the dish with the bread crumbs and press down to make the crumbs stick. Flip it around a few times to make sure it’s good and coated.
Then place it in the air fryer basket and repeat with the remaining chicken tenders. Again, you need to make sure they’re in a single layer in the air fryer, so you may need to do a couple of batches.
I spray them lightly on both sides with a nonstick cooking spray because I love the golden color it gives the outside. This isn’t necessary, but they won’t look quite like mine if you don’t.
Then cook at 390 degrees for a cooking time is 10 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Remove and repeat with remaining chicken tenders.
Enjoy right away with your favorite dipping sauce!
Ranch Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup Butter melted
- 1/4 cup Parmesan grated
- 3/4 cup Panko Bread crumbs
- 2 Tbsp. Ranch Seasoning
Instructions
- Add melted butter to a small dish.
- In a second small dish, combine parmesan, panko and ranch seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Dip a chicken tender in the melted butter and turn to coat all sides. Transfer to the panko dish and press down to coat all sides with crumbs. Place in the air fryer basket.
- Repeat with remaining chicken tenders making sure the chicken is in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly coat both sides of the chicken with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook at 390 degrees for 10 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Nutrition
In conclusion, the chicken tenders with ranch seasoning is a quick and easy way to make a delicious chicken dish. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the air fryer gives it a crispy coating. This air fryer ranch chicken recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together with friends.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook chicken tenders in an air fryer?
Cook chicken tenders in an air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Try making ranch chicken tenders in an air fryer style for extra flavor by coating them in ranch seasoning before cooking. This will give them a delicious, crunchy texture.
How to cook chicken wings in an air fryer oven?
To cook chicken wings in an air fryer oven, preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange the wings in a single layer and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. Use ranch seasoning chicken wings for an added flavor and a tasty twist. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
How long does it take to bake chicken thighs?
Bake chicken thighs at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a flavorful variation, try baking ranch chicken tenders or chicken thighs by marinating them in ranch dressing before baking. This adds a delightful taste to the dish.
How long does chicken last in the fridge?
Cooked chicken lasts 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Raw chicken should be used within 1-2 days. If you have leftovers like ranch chicken breast in an air fryer, ensure they are properly stored to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
How long do I cook wontons in the air fryer?
Cook wontons in the air fryer at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. Spray them lightly with oil to achieve a crispy texture. For an interesting twist, try serving them with a side of ranch dressing for dipping, which nicely complements the crunchy exterior of the wontons.
What temperature should chicken tenders be cooked in the air fryer?
Cook chicken tenders in an air fryer at 400°F. This temperature ensures they cook evenly and get a nice, crispy exterior. For added flavor, coat them with ranch seasoning before air frying. This method is perfect for making air fryer ranch chicken tenders.
How do you get bread crumbs to stick to chicken?
To get bread crumbs to stick to the chicken, coat the chicken pieces in flour, dip them in beaten eggs, and then coat them in bread crumbs. Use a mixture of panko bread crumbs and ranch seasoning for extra flavor. This method is great for making panko ranch chicken tenders, which come out crispy and delicious.
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