Pickle Ranch Chicken Tenders (Print)

Crispy chicken tenders marinated in pickle brine and baked with ranch-seasoned coating for savory flavor.

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken & Marinade

01 - 1.5 pounds chicken tenders
02 - 1 cup dill pickle juice
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder

→ Coating

05 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
07 - 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
08 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ For Dipping & Baking

11 - 2 large eggs
12 - 2 tablespoons milk or dairy-free alternative
13 - Cooking spray or 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

# Directions:

01 - Arrange chicken tenders in a large zip-top bag or bowl and submerge completely in dill pickle juice. Transfer to the refrigerator and marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
02 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray or vegetable oil.
03 - Whisk flour, panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper together in a shallow bowl until evenly combined.
04 - Beat eggs with milk or dairy-free alternative in a separate bowl, mixing until smooth.
05 - Remove chicken from the marinade and pat dry using paper towels. Dredge each piece first in the flour-panko mixture, then in the egg wash, and once again in the flour-panko mixture, pressing gently for full coverage.
06 - Position coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with oil to encourage browning.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping all tenders halfway through. Ensure coating turns golden brown and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
08 - Present hot chicken tenders with preferred dipping sauces.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Bold tangy flavor from pickle brine
  • Crispy ranch crust for extra crunch
02 -
  • Marinating in pickle juice boosts both flavor and tenderness
  • This recipe can be made gluten-free by swapping flour and panko for gluten-free options
03 -
  • For extra crunch, double-coat the tenders before baking
  • Try air frying at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes for easy crispiness
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