Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Ranch Chicken tenderloins marinated in buttermilk and coated with a crunchy parmesan panko and ranch seasoning mix, perfectly air fried for a juicy inside and golden, crispy outside. This recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy the classic ranch chicken with less oil and mess, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast tenderloins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup plain Japanese style panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 (1 ounce) package dry ranch salad dressing mix
Optional
- Dipping sauce of choice
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenderloins and buttermilk in a large, sealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible, seal the bag, and gently slosh the chicken around in the buttermilk to coat evenly. Let it marinate at room temperature for 45 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and dry ranch salad dressing mix until well combined to create a flavorful crust.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken tenderloin from the buttermilk bag one at a time, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides for maximum crispiness.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket with a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Air fry the chicken at 350°F (175°C) for 12-16 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking (around 6 minutes) when the top is lightly browned and crispy, to ensure even coloring and crispiness.
- Check Doneness: Verify that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) before removing from the air fryer to guarantee safety and juiciness.
- Serve: Serve the ranch chicken hot with your choice of dipping sauce on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy immediately for best texture.
Notes
- Marinating at room temperature for 45 minutes helps tenderize the chicken and enhance flavor, but refrigerate if preferred for food safety.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispness.
- You can substitute plain panko with seasoned breadcrumbs if desired, but adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Serves 4, perfect for a family meal or sharing as an appetizer.