There’s just something about biting into a crispy chicken tender that brings back childhood nostalgia, don’t you think? As a kid, chicken tenders were always my go-to at family gatherings or those special trips to fast food joints. Little did I know then how simple it would be to recreate my favorite crispy delights at home for friends and family to enjoy. Today, I’m going to share my ultimate recipe for **Crispy Chicken Tenders with Ranch Dipping Sauce** — the perfect addition to any gathering, a cozy night in, or even a casual weekday dinner.
What I love most about making these chicken tenders is that they remind me of lazy summer afternoons spent cooking with my mom in our cozy kitchen. We would bread the chicken together, and then it was always a battle to see who could sneak the first one right out of the fryer! The crunchy texture paired with a dip in the creamy ranch sauce just can’t be beaten. So, grab your apron, and let’s get to frying up these crispy bites of happiness that you’ll want to eat by the plateful!
What’s in Crispy Chicken Tenders with Ranch Dipping Sauce?
Chicken Breast: The star of our dish! I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, juicy bites. Cutting them into strips from the breast makes them the perfect size for frying.
Flour: This will create the first layer of our breading. A good all-purpose flour works great here – it helps achieve that delightful crispiness.
Breadcrumbs: I like to use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor, but plain will do just fine; you can always add your favorite spices.
Eggs: Eggs are crucial for the breading process, helping the flour and breadcrumbs adhere beautifully to the chicken.
Ranch Dressing: This creamy goodness is the perfect pairing for our crispy tenders. I love to use a good quality store-bought ranch, but you can always whip up your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Is Crispy Chicken Tenders with Ranch Dipping Sauce Good for You?
Ah, the age-old question of indulgence versus nutrition! These chicken tenders can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Chicken Breast: Rich in protein, this lean meat helps keep you fueled throughout your day. It’s also low in fat compared to other cuts of chicken, making it a great choice for fitness enthusiasts.
Breadcrumbs: While they do add carbs, opting for whole grain breadcrumbs can offer more fiber and nutrients.
Ranch Dressing: Let’s be real – ranch does add a bit of richness. If you’re looking to lighten things up, try using a yogurt-based ranch or creating your own using Greek yogurt as a base.
That being said, let’s not forget: sometimes it’s all about enjoyment! So treat yourself, and maybe pair it with a side salad for some greens!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves about 4)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1.5 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying (I usually go for canola, but vegetable oil works too!)
– 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
How to Make Crispy Chicken Tenders?
1. Start by preparing your chicken. Cut the chicken breasts into strips, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third.
3. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is fully covered for the ultimate crunch!
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You can test if it’s hot enough by dropping a small piece of bread in; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
5. Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve those crispy delights with a generous side of ranch dipping sauce, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Ultimate Enjoyment!
Pair these crispy chicken tenders with a side of veggies, like celery and carrots, to add a little crunch and nutrition. Feel free to mix it up with different dipping sauces, too—BBQ or honey mustard make great alternatives if you’re feeling adventurous! If you want to take this up a notch, serve them in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato, or throw them over a salad for a wholesome meal.
Cooking these tenders is a fun process that can easily be adapted according to your taste preferences. I encourage you to try them out and make them your own! Whether it’s for a Sunday family dinner or a get-together with friends, I hope you fall as deeply in love with these crispy chicken tenders as I have. Don’t forget to drop me a note about how yours turn out—I can’t wait to hear!