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Chicken tenders have carved out a beloved niche in family-friendly meals, appealing to both young and old with their tender, juicy texture and versatility. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, chicken tenders are a go-to option that never disappoints. In this article, we will focus on a delightful twist on this classic dish: Garlic Herb Chicken Tenders paired with a homemade Ranch Dip. This recipe not only promises a burst of flavor but also emphasizes ease of preparation, making it a perfect choice for busy families.

Garlic Herb Chicken Tenders with Ranch Dip

Discover the irresistible flavors of Garlic Herb Chicken Tenders with Ranch Dip! This recipe features tender, juicy chicken breast seasoned with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, creating a delightful twist on a family favorite. Pair it with a creamy homemade ranch dip for the perfect balance of taste. Easy to prepare, nutritious, and sure to please all ages, it's an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gathering friends. Enjoy this delicious, crowd-pleasing meal!

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Cooking oil (for frying)

For the Ranch Dip:

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon buttermilk (optional for creaminess)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried dill

1 teaspoon fresh chives, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken strips with minced garlic, parsley, thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate the chicken.

    Prepare the Breading Setup: Set up three bowls:

      - In the first bowl, place the flour.

        - In the second bowl, beat the eggs.

          - In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with an extra pinch of salt and pepper, along with any remaining parsley and thyme.

            Bread the Chicken: Take each marinated chicken strip, first dip it in the flour, shake off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Set aside on a baking sheet.

              Fry the Chicken Tenders: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken tenders in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Drain on paper towels.

                Make the Ranch Dip: While the chicken is frying, in a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and fresh chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and well combined. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Plate your crispy garlic herb chicken tenders and serve them warm alongside a bowl of the homemade ranch dip. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings