There’s something magical about the perfect crispy chicken strip—golden brown, ultra-crunchy on the outside, and juicy, tender on the inside. But these Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Strips take it to the next level! Infused with savory ranch seasoning, coated in buttery panko breadcrumbs, and baked to crispy perfection, these strips deliver bold flavor and irresistible crunch in every bite.
What makes this recipe even better? It’s baked, not fried, meaning you get that satisfying crispiness without all the extra oil. Whether you’re making these for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or just satisfying a craving, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Kids love them, adults crave them, and they disappear fast!
I’ve made these countless times, and they never fail to bring back memories of cozy game nights, dipping them into ranch or honey mustard while enjoying a good movie. They’re simple to make with just a handful of ingredients, and the best part? You may have most of them in your kitchen!
So, if you’re looking for an easy, foolproof way to make crispy, flavorful chicken strips, let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super crispy & golden-brown – That perfect crunch without deep frying!
Buttery Parmesan ranch flavor – A bold, savory kick in every bite.
Baked, not fried – Less oil, same delicious crispiness.
Family-friendly, kid-approved – A hit with all ages!
Quick & easy – Just 6 ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredient List
To make these Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Strips, you’ll need just a few pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s everything you need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips (boneless, skinless; you can also use chicken tenders for convenience!)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (adds rich flavor and helps the coating stick)
For the Crispy Coating:
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (adds bold, herby flavor—use homemade ranch seasoning if preferred!)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (extra crispy! Swap with crushed cornflakes for even more crunch.)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a salty, nutty depth of flavor—use freshly grated for best results!)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (enhances the savory flavor—feel free to add more if you love garlic!)
- ½ tsp paprika (adds warmth and subtle smokiness; swap for cayenne if you like heat!)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste (season according to preference!)
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations:
- Dairy-Free? Swap butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine.
- Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers.
- Extra Crunchy? Double coat the chicken by repeating the butter + breadcrumb step!
Pro Tip: If you love spicy chicken, add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the butter!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect crispy ranch chicken strips every time!
1. Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup!
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine:
Panko breadcrumbs
Grated Parmesan cheese
Ranch seasoning mix
Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper
- Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Why Panko? It’s lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, creating a crispier texture!
3. Melt the Butter
Using another bowl, whisk the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Make sure it’s warm, not scorching hot, to prevent cooking the chicken prematurely.
4. Dip & Coat the Chicken Strips
One by one:
Dip each chicken strip into the melted butter, coating all sides.
Dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks well.
Shake off excess crumbs and place each strip on the baking sheet.
Pro Tip: Want extra crunch? Repeat the dipping process for a double coat!
5. Arrange & Bake
Place the coated chicken strips on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch for even crisping.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown & crispy.
Extra Crispy Hack: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for an ultra-crunchy finish! Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
Let the chicken strips rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Serve it with your best dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ!
Now you have the ultimate crispy, buttery, ranch-flavored chicken strips—no frying needed!
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken
Achieving crispy, golden-brown chicken strips without frying can be tricky, but these expert chef-approved tips will ensure that your Ranch Parmesan Chicken Strips turn out perfectly crunchy every time!
1. Broil for the Last 2 Minutes for Extra Crispiness
- After baking for 20-25 minutes, switch your oven to broil mode for the final 2-3 minutes.
- This gives the outer crust an extra crunch without drying out the chicken.
- Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on them! Broiling can go from golden-brown to burnt quickly.
2. Use Fresh Parmesan for a Deeper Flavor
- Pre-shredded Parmesan contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Instead, use freshly grated Parmesan—it melts better and creates a more intense savory, nutty flavor.
- Bonus: The fresh cheese crisps up beautifully when baked!
3. Double-Coat for the Ultimate Crunch
- If you love extra-crispy chicken, use the double-dip method:
- Dip the chicken in melted butter.
- Coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Repeat the process (butter → breadcrumbs) a second time for an extra-thick crust!
- Why? This double layer locks in moisture while ensuring a crispier bite.
4. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving
- Resting the chicken strips for 2-3 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute and keeps them moist.
- Cutting into them immediately can cause the juices to escape, making them drier.
- This short wait makes a huge difference in both texture and flavor!
By following these tips, you’ll get restaurant-quality crispy chicken strips every time—baked, not fried!
Best Dipping Sauces for Chicken Strips
A good dipping sauce takes these Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Strips to the next level! Whether you prefer tangy, spicy, or creamy, here are the best sauces to pair with your chicken:
1. Classic Ranch Dressing
- The cool, herby flavor of ranch pairs perfectly with the savory ranch-seasoned coating.
- Use homemade ranch for extra freshness, or a store-bought favorite for convenience.
2. Honey Mustard
- A sweet and tangy combo that balances the buttery, cheesy coating.
- Make your own by mixing honey, Dijon mustard, and mayo!
3. BBQ Sauce
- A smoky, slightly sweet sauce that adds a bold contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Go for hickory-smoked BBQ for an extra flavor boost!
4. Spicy Mayo
- A creamy, spicy option made by mixing mayo with sriracha or hot sauce.
- Perfect for those who like a little heat!
5. Garlic Aioli
- A rich, garlicky sauce that adds depth and umami flavor to the crispy chicken.
- Make it by blending mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil.
Looking for more ideas? Try buffalo sauce, blue cheese dressing, or even a zesty chipotle dip!
What to Serve With Ranch Parmesan Chicken Strips
These Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Strips are already packed with bold flavors and crunch, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level. Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food or a healthier balance, here are the best side dishes to serve with your crispy chicken strips:
1. Crispy Fries
- You can’t go wrong with a big plate of crispy fries! Serve them with ketchup, ranch, or cheese sauce for dipping.
- Opt for sweet potato fries for a slightly healthier, sweet-savory twist.
2. Light & Fresh Salad
- A crisp, refreshing green salad balances the richness of the chicken.
- Try a Caesar salad, arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or a cucumber-tomato mix.
3. Creamy Coleslaw
- The cool crunch of coleslaw pairs beautifully with the hot, crispy chicken strips.
- Make it with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy mayo-based dressing.
4. Roasted Vegetables
- For a healthier side, roast broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- The slight caramelization adds a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
5. Buttery Mashed Potatoes
- A creamy, buttery mashed potato is a comforting, hearty side.
- Try garlic mashed potatoes or cheesy mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.
6. Make It a Meal Prep Option
- Pack these chicken strips in meal prep containers with a side of veggies and a small dipping sauce cup.
- They reheat well for lunch, making them perfect for work or school lunches.
Tip: Serve them in wraps, on top of salads, or as sliders for a fun twist!
Storage & Reheating Tips
Want to enjoy your crispy chicken strips later without losing their crunch? Here’s how to store and reheat them the right way:
Fridge: Store for Up to 3 Days
- Once cooled, place the chicken strips in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture and maintain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze for Longer Storage
- Arrange chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm.
- Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
- Tip: Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating for Maximum Crispiness
- Oven Method (Best Option):
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken strips on a baking rack or sheet.
- Heat for 8-10 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Air Fryer (Fast & Crispy):
- Set to 350°F (175°C).
- Reheat for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Microwave (Not Recommended!):
- It will make the coating soggy, so only use it if necessary.
- If using a microwave, toast in a dry pan afterward to regain some crispiness.
FAQs: Answering Your Common Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Just cut them into strips and adjust the baking time. Thighs may take a few minutes longer due to higher fat content.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour instead of regular panko.
Can I air fry instead of baking?
Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the best way to keep the coating crispy?
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet—air needs to circulate for even crisping.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.
- Broil for the last 2 minutes for an extra crispy finish.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Freshly grated works best, but pre-shredded is fine. Avoid powdered Parmesan, as it won’t give the same crispy, cheesy texture.