Description

This Air Fryer Ranch Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breast tenderloins marinated in buttermilk and coated in a flavorful mixture of Japanese style panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and dry ranch salad dressing mix. Cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, this dish offers a quick, healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, perfect for a delicious weeknight meal or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

1 pound chicken breast tenderloins
1 cup buttermilk

Breading Mixture

½ cup plain Japanese style panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 (1 ounce) package dry ranch salad dressing mix

Optional

Dipping sauce (optional side)

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Instructions

Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken tenders and buttermilk in a large sealable plastic bag. Remove excess air and slosh the chicken around in the buttermilk to coat evenly.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken marinate on the counter for 45 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
Prepare Breading Mixture: In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and dry ranch salad dressing mix until well combined.
Coat Chicken: Remove one chicken tenderloin from the bag and press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides completely.
Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is space between each piece to allow even cooking. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
Air Fry Chicken: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 12-16 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through (around 6 minutes) once the top becomes light brown and crispy. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown.
Serve: Remove chicken from air fryer and serve hot. Optionally, pair with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Buttermilk can be substituted with regular milk plus a tablespoon of vinegar if unavailable.
Parmesan cheese adds a nice umami flavor and helps the breading crisp; do not skip for best results.
Leftover ranch chicken can be reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.