Chicken Tenders with Greek Yogurt Ranch
This Chicken Tenders with Greek Yogurt Ranch recipe offers a healthier take on a classic favorite, featuring crispy, flavorful tenders paired with a creamy, tangy Greek yogurt ranch dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray (for baking)
For the Greek Yogurt Ranch:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat or regular)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil spray.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the flour in another shallow bowl and the beaten eggs in a third bowl.
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the panko mixture, pressing to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and spray the tops lightly with olive oil.
2. Bake the Chicken Tenders:
- Bake the chicken tenders for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Make the Greek Yogurt Ranch:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve:
- Serve the crispy chicken tenders with the Greek Yogurt Ranch for dipping.
Tips:
- Air Fryer Option: Cook the chicken tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for extra crispiness.
- Customize the ranch: Add other herbs like chives or cilantro to the ranch for more flavor.
- Spicy twist: Mix in a little cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the ranch for a spicy kick.
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful chicken tenders with a healthy, tangy Greek yogurt ranch dipping sauce!