Ranch-Seasoned Baked Chicken Tenderloins | Easy Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

If you’re craving something flavorful, quick, and oven-baked, this recipe for ranch-seasoned baked chicken tenderloins is your new go-to. These juicy chicken strips are generously coated with a bold blend of ranch seasoning, then baked to golden perfection.

No frying. No breading mess. Just simple ingredients and big flavor in every bite. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers delicious results with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Ranch-Seasoned Baked Chicken Tenderloins Recipe

These baked chicken tenderloins combine rich ranch seasoning with a juicy oven finish. You’ll love how easy it is to make them with ingredients already in your pantry.

• Packed with bold ranch flavor that’s crave-worthy and satisfying
• Oven-baked for a lighter option with no greasy cleanup
• Ready in under 30 minutes for busy weeknight meals
• Family-approved and great for kids or picky eaters
• Perfect for salads, wraps, bowls, or served on their own

If you’re looking for chicken tender dinner ideas that don’t involve a deep fryer or hours of prep, this one is a must-try. It also pairs beautifully with comforting sides or fresh veggies, depending on your mood.

Ranch-Seasoned Baked Chicken Tenderloins Ingredients

Using simple, clean ingredients keeps this recipe easy, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight cooking. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1½ pounds chicken tenderloins – trimmed and patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps the seasoning stick and adds moisture
• 1½ tablespoons ranch seasoning mix – store-bought or homemade
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – adds extra savory depth
• ½ teaspoon paprika – for color and subtle warmth
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – enhances the ranch flavor
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – freshly cracked for best flavor
• ½ teaspoon salt – adjust to taste
• Fresh parsley – optional, for garnish

Try to use fresh, high-quality chicken tenderloins and a good-quality ranch seasoning. You can also make your own ranch mix with dried dill, parsley, garlic, and onion powder. These clean ingredients make the dish feel homemade and Pinterest-worthy.

How to Make Ranch-Seasoned Baked Chicken Tenderloins

Making these oven-baked chicken tenderloins is easy and mess-free. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, add the chicken tenderloins. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
4. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken tenderloins and toss to coat all sides thoroughly.
5. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet, spaced out evenly. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra color, broil the last 2 minutes.

These chicken tenderloins are crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of ranch flavor. For a similar easy bake, check out this One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake.

What to Serve with Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

These ranch chicken strips are versatile enough to match with many sides. You can dress them up or keep it simple depending on your meal style.

• Roasted baby potatoes with herbs and garlic
• Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus
• Creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette or ranch dressing
• Macaroni and cheese or wild rice blend
• Tucked into a wrap with lettuce and tomatoes

They also make great lunchbox options for kids and adults alike. You can even slice them and serve over a Caesar salad for a refreshing meal. If you love oven simplicity, you’ll also enjoy these Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs.

Chicken Tender Dinner Ideas (Variations & Customizations)

It’s easy to customize this recipe to fit your flavor preferences, dietary needs, or just to mix things up week-to-week.

• Swap ranch for taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex spin
• Add grated parmesan cheese to the seasoning for a savory crust
• Use Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist
• Serve with buffalo sauce for a spicy edge
• Add sliced tenders to pasta, rice bowls, or flatbreads
• Go low-carb by pairing with roasted veggies or cauliflower mash

These swaps keep your weekly dinner rotation fresh and exciting. If you enjoy bold Southern-style flavors, try our Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken for another easy meal.

What to Do With Chicken Tenders (Storage & Reheating)

This recipe is great for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through
• Use an air fryer to restore crispiness, reheat at 370°F for 5 minutes
• Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months
• Add a splash of broth or water when reheating in the microwave to keep them juicy

Batch cooking chicken tenderloins also makes weekly lunches easier. If you love cooking once and eating twice, try this Taco Soup with Ranch Packet for another ranch-friendly option.

How to Make Chicken Tenders Perfect Every Time (Pro Tips)

Nailing the perfect baked chicken tenderloin is all about a few small techniques that make a big difference.

• Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the coating stick
• Don’t skip the olive oil, it helps seal in moisture and flavor
• Space tenderloins evenly on the baking sheet to avoid steaming
• Broil the last 2 minutes for crispy edges without overcooking
• Use a meat thermometer to hit 165°F for perfect doneness

These tips help guarantee that your chicken is juicy, flavorful, and consistently well-cooked. You’ll get that oven-fried texture every time with minimal effort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Chicken Strip Recipes

Even a simple recipe like this has a few traps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Overcooking makes tenders dry and tough, always check internal temp
• Using too much seasoning can overpower the chicken flavor
• Skipping oil can lead to dry results and patchy coating
• Not flipping during broil can cause uneven browning
• Forgetting to preheat the oven slows down cooking and alters texture

Staying mindful of these mistakes will help you get crispy, juicy chicken strips that taste like they came from your favorite family restaurant, without leaving your kitchen.

Chicken Breast Tender Recipes – Final Thoughts

These ranch-seasoned baked chicken tenderloins are flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for anyone looking for weeknight chicken breast tender recipes.

From quick dinners to healthy meal prep, this recipe delivers both convenience and bold taste in every bite.

Pin this recipe to your favorite dinner board and share it with a friend who needs a fast, delicious chicken meal tonight.

FAQs

How long do I bake ranch-seasoned chicken tenderloins in the oven?

Bake them at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, it should reach 165°F.

Can I use ranch dressing instead of ranch seasoning for baked chicken tenderloins?

For this recipe, ranch seasoning mix is best. Ranch dressing adds too much moisture and can cause uneven browning or soggy texture.

Are baked ranch chicken tenders a healthy option?

Yes, baking instead of frying reduces fat and calories. When served with veggies or whole grains, this recipe fits well into a balanced meal plan.

What are the best sides for ranch-seasoned chicken tenders?

Try roasted potatoes, broccoli, garden salad, mac and cheese, or wrap them in lettuce for a low-carb meal. They’re also great sliced over rice bowls or quinoa.

Ranch-Seasoned Baked Chicken Tenderloins | Easy Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

Author: Ellie Cooking Method: Oven Baked