Description
Irresistible Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
1 lb chicken tenders
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 cup avocado puree
1/2 cup shredded cheddar
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp lemon zest
1/4 cup chopped scallions
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F or heat oil in a pan.
Combine avocado puree, ranch mix, and cheddar in a bowl.
Coat chicken tenders and press into breadcrumbs mixed with lemon zest.
Bake or fry until crispy.
Garnish with scallions and serve with lemon aioli!
#CrispyAvocadoChicken
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect crispy chicken tenders every time.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. For frying, pour oil into a heavy skillet to a depth of 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high.
- In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the avocado puree, ranch seasoning mix, and shredded cheddar cheese until a thick, cohesive paste forms.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the lemon zest.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. Using tongs or your hands, coat each tender completely in the avocado-ranch mixture, ensuring an even layer.
- Immediately transfer the coated tender to the panko mixture. Press firmly to adhere a generous, even layer of breadcrumbs on all sides.
- Place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. For baking, bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For frying, cook for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through.
- Let the tenders rest for 5 minutes on a cooling rack to maximize crispiness before garnishing with chopped scallions.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and dips. Serve them as the main protein alongside a fresh garden salad, crispy sweet potato fries, or creamy coleslaw. For dipping, the suggested lemon aioli is excellent, but they also work beautifully with classic ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They make a fantastic filling for wraps or sandwiches with lettuce and tomato.
How-to Summary
To make Crispy Avocado Ranch Chicken Tenders: Mix avocado, ranch seasoning, and cheese into a coating paste. Press coated chicken into lemon-zested panko breadcrumbs. Bake at 400°F for 18-22 minutes or pan-fry until golden and cooked through. Garnish with scallions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes. Slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch thick strips to mimic the size of tenders, ensuring even cooking.
What can I substitute for avocado puree?
Mashed ripe avocado works perfectly. For a different flavor, you can use an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-8 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid the microwave.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use certified gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes for the crispy coating.
Why is my coating not sticking to the chicken?
Ensure the chicken is patted very dry before applying the avocado mixture. The paste acts as the “glue” for the breadcrumbs, so a thick, even layer is crucial.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Chicken: Excess moisture prevents the coating from adhering properly.
- Skipping the Press: Gently rolling the tender in breadcrumbs won’t give a good crust. Press firmly to create a solid, crispy layer.
- Crowding the Pan or Baking Sheet: This causes steaming, resulting in soggy breading. Arrange tenders with space between them.
- Using Fine Breadcrumbs: Panko is essential for an ultra-crispy, airy texture. Fine, traditional breadcrumbs will become dense.
Conclusion
These Crispy Avocado Ranch Chicken Tenders offer a delicious twist on a classic favorite, combining creamy, tangy flavor with an irresistible crunchy texture. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can easily achieve restaurant-quality results at home. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners, game day, or meal prep. Enjoy your perfectly crispy, flavorful creation!