Introduction
If you’re in search of a delicious yet easy-to-make dish, look no further than this spicy ranch chicken tender recipe. This dish combines tender chicken with the zesty flavors of ranch seasoning and buffalo sauce, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or game day snack. Quick and flavorful, these chicken tenders are sure to please anyone who enjoys a bit of heat with their meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 lbs chicken tenderloins
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup hot sauce
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Directions
1. **Season the Chicken:**
In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins with the ranch seasoning mix and olive oil. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. **Cook the Chicken:**
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. **Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:**
While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the hot sauce until well combined.
4. **Combine and Serve:**
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Toss the chicken to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, optionally with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Enjoy your spicy ranch chicken tenders!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Season the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins with the ranch seasoning mix and olive oil. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the hot sauce until well combined.
Combine and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Toss the chicken to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, optionally with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Notes
Chicken Tenderloins:
Using chicken tenderloins ensures quick cooking and tenderness. You may also use chicken breasts cut into strips if preferred.
Ranch Seasoning:
Feel free to adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to your taste if you prefer a stronger or milder flavor.
Hot Sauce:
Choose your favorite brand of hot sauce for the buffalo flavor. Adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with celery sticks and your choice of dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese for a classic buffalo chicken experience.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Chicken
Make sure to evenly coat the chicken tenderloins with ranch seasoning mix and olive oil. This will enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust when cooked.
Skillet Cooking
Using a large skillet and cooking the chicken over medium-high heat allows for a proper sear, promoting browning on the outside while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
Making Buffalo Sauce
Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat before adding the hot sauce. This technique ensures a smooth, well-mixed sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken.
Tossing to Coat
Once the chicken is cooked, pouring the buffalo sauce and tossing ensures every piece is thoroughly coated, enhancing the flavor of each bite.
FAQ
Can I use different cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use other chicken cuts, but cooking times may vary. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Is there a substitute for ranch seasoning?
You can create a homemade ranch seasoning by mixing dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder with salt and pepper as a substitute.
How spicy is the hot sauce?
The spice level depends on the hot sauce brand used; you can choose a milder sauce for less heat or a hotter variety for a spicier dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time but it’s best to toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
What can I serve with the chicken?
This dish pairs well with celery sticks, carrots, and dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for a classic buffalo chicken experience.
Conclusion
The buffalo chicken tenderloins are a delicious and easy-to-make option for a flavorful meal. The combination of ranch seasoning and hot sauce creates a perfect balance of savory and spicy, making this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these chicken tenders are sure to impress.
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Create a wrap by placing the buffalo chicken tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, diced tomatoes, and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Chicken Tacos
Transform the buffalo chicken into tasty tacos by adding them to taco shells with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Shred the cooked buffalo chicken and toss it with mixed greens, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite salad dressing for a refreshing meal.
Spicy Chicken Sliders
Serve the buffalo chicken on small slider buns with pickles and coleslaw for a fun and spicy twist on traditional sliders.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Top a pizza crust with buffalo chicken, mozzarella cheese, and red onion slices, then bake until the crust is golden for a delicious pizza night.
