Prepare for a flavor explosion with these Crispy Chipotle Ranch Chicken Tenders! Get ready to dunk, dip, and devour as the bold, smoky chipotle seasoning mingles with the creamy, tangy ranch for an irresistible combination. These juicy, golden-fried tenders will have everyone licking their fingers and coming back for more. Let’s dive in and discover the delicious story behind this epic chicken creation!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chipotle Ranch Chicken Tenders
Tender, juicy chicken coated in a crispy, zesty breading and paired with a cool, creamy chipotle ranch dip — what’s not to love? This recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and bold flavor, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The smoky chipotle seasoning adds a delightful kick, while the ranch dressing provides a lush, velvety contrast. Plus, these tenders are baked to perfection, giving you that satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep-frying. Whether you’re serving them as a game-day snack, a family-friendly dinner, or a party appetizer, this dish is sure to be the star of the show.
Ingredients
Get ready to load up on flavor with the simple ingredients needed for this recipe. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken tenders, all-purpose flour, eggs, panko breadcrumbs, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. For the chipotle ranch dip, you’ll use sour cream, mayonnaise, chipotle chili peppers in adobo sauce, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chipotle Chili Powder: Regular chili powder or smoked paprika (similar smoky, spicy flavor)
- Sour Cream: Plain Greek yogurt (for a healthier, tangy alternative)
How to Make Crispy Chipotle Ranch Chicken Tenders
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for creating these flavor-packed chicken tenders!
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the panko breadcrumbs mixed with the chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour, then the egg, and finally the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to help the coating adhere. Arrange the breaded tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Bake the chicken tenders for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. While the tenders are baking, prepare the chipotle ranch dip by combining the sour cream, mayonnaise, chipotle chili peppers in adobo sauce, parsley, and a squeeze of lime juice in a small bowl.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the tenders are done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Arrange the crispy, juicy chicken tenders on a platter or plate, and serve the creamy, zesty chipotle ranch dip alongside for dipping. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Spice Level: Increase the amount of chipotle chili powder in the breading or add extra adobo sauce to the dip for a spicier kick.
- Seasoning: Experiment with different seasonings, such as smoked paprika, cumin, or cayenne pepper, to customize the flavor profile.
- Shortcut: Use store-bought ranch dressing instead of making the chipotle version from scratch.
- Healthier Twist: Bake the tenders on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to help them get extra crispy.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Roasted vegetables, fresh salad, or as a shareable appetizer or game-day snack.
Storage: Leftover tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat the tenders in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the breading and dip components a day in advance. Store the breaded, uncooked tenders in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving.
Nutrition Information
These Crispy Chipotle Ranch Chicken Tenders are a satisfying and balanced meal option, providing a good source of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and a touch of healthy fats from the ranch dip.
- Serving Size: Approximately 3-4 tenders
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbs: 28 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
While the tenders are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the breading and dip components a day in advance. Store the breaded, uncooked tenders in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving. The ranch dip can also be made a day ahead and kept in the fridge until ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Absolutely! You can use this recipe with chicken breasts, chicken wings, or even chicken thighs. Just adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Is there a way to make these tenders gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs in the breading.
Can I air fry the chicken tenders instead of baking?
Definitely! Air fry the breaded tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
How can I make the chipotle ranch dip milder?
If you find the chipotle flavor too intense, start with just 1-2 tablespoons of the adobo sauce and adjust to your taste preferences. You can also substitute regular chili powder for the chipotle.
Try These Next
- crispy buffalo chicken bacon ranch sliders
- crispy chicken bacon ranch stuffed sweet potatoes
- crispy chicken bacon ranch stuffed peppers
Crispy Chipotle Ranch Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: 🍗 Chicken & Poultry Creations
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Chipotle Ranch Chicken Tenders are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Perfectly seasoned and coated for an irresistible crunch!
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. 2. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and chipotle powder; add the chicken tenders and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3. In a separate bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. 4. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip it back in the buttermilk, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
5. 5. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. 7. Drizzle with ranch dressing and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, you can fry the chicken tenders instead of baking them. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken tenders, crispy, ranch, chipotle