Recipes

Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders with Tater Tots and Salad 2023

Ingredients:

  • 1 package chicken breast tenderloins
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup Parmesan crusted Shake ‘n Bake coating
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tater tots
  • Fresh salad greens

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare Chicken:
    • Pat the chicken breast tenderloins dry with paper towels.
    • Brush each tenderloin lightly with vegetable oil to enhance crispiness.
  3. Seasoning Mix:
    • In a bowl, combine the Parmesan crusted Shake ‘n Bake coating with ranch seasoning. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for additional flavor.
  4. Coat the Chicken:
    • Roll each chicken tenderloin in the Parmesan-ranch mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Press the mixture onto the chicken for a generous coating.
  5. Air Fryer Magic:
    • Place the coated chicken tenderloins in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook at 400°F for approximately 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy.
  6. Prepare Tater Tots:
    • While the chicken is cooking, prepare tater tots according to the package instructions. These will complement the chicken perfectly.
  7. Fresh Salad:
    • Assemble a vibrant salad using fresh salad greens. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and any other favorite veggies. Toss with your preferred dressing.
  8. Serve:
    • Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, serve the Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders alongside the crispy tater tots and a generous helping of fresh salad.
  9. Garnish (Optional):
    • Garnish the chicken with additional Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of ranch seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
  10. Enjoy the Family Favorite:
    • Gather the family around the table to enjoy this kid-approved meal. The crispy, flavorful chicken paired with tater tots and a refreshing salad creates a balanced and delightful dining experience.
  11. Fun Tip:
    • Consider preparing a side of ranch or your kids’ favorite dipping sauce for an added element of fun.
  12. Family Mealtime Happiness:
    • Relish in the joy of serving a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of crispy chicken, tater tots, and a fresh salad is a winning trio for kids of all ages!

Enjoy this easy and flavorful recipe that’s bound to bring smiles to the dinner table. 🍗🥔🥗

#KidApproved #AirFryerMagic #FamilyFavorites

Here are some helpful tips to elevate the deliciousness of your Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders with Tater Tots and Salad:

  1. Marinating Time:
    • For an even more flavorful chicken, marinate the chicken tenders in the ranch seasoning and a bit of oil for 30 minutes before coating them in the Parmesan crusted Shake ‘n Bake.
  2. Homemade Ranch Seasoning:
    • Create your own ranch seasoning mix using a blend of dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste.
  3. Double Coating for Extra Crunch:
    • For an extra crispy texture, double coat the chicken tenders by dipping them in the Parmesan-ranch mixture twice before air frying.
  4. Customize Tater Tots:
    • Sprinkle the tater tots with a bit of extra seasoning, such as garlic powder or paprika, before baking. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the tots.
  5. Variety of Dipping Sauces:
    • Serve a variety of dipping sauces alongside the meal. Classic ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce can enhance the overall dining experience.
  6. Fresh Herb Garnish:
    • Garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.
  7. Squeeze of Lemon:
    • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken and salad just before serving. The acidity brightens up the flavors.
  8. Cheese Variation:
    • Experiment with different types of grated cheese in the Parmesan crusted Shake ‘n Bake for a unique twist. Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can bring distinct flavors.
  9. Baked Veggie Medley:
    • Roast a medley of colorful vegetables alongside the tater tots for a well-rounded and nutritious side dish.
  10. Buttermilk Soak for Chicken:
    • Soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk before coating them. This helps tenderize the chicken and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
  11. Grilled Chicken Option:
    • If you prefer, you can grill the chicken tenders for a smoky flavor. Brush them with a bit of oil before grilling to prevent sticking.
  12. Avocado Slices in Salad:
    • Enhance the salad by adding creamy avocado slices. The richness of avocado complements the freshness of the greens.
  13. Balsamic Glaze Drizzle:
    • Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the salad for a sweet and tangy finish. It adds a touch of sophistication to the dish.
  14. Crispy Bacon Bits:
    • Crumble crispy bacon over the salad for an extra layer of savory goodness.
  15. Warm Bread Rolls:
    • Serve warm bread rolls or garlic bread on the side to complete the meal and soak up any delicious sauces.

Feel free to mix and match these tips to suit your preferences and create a meal that’s not only delightful but also tailored to your family’s tastes! 🌟🍗🥔🥗

 

Here are some POPULAR QUESTIONS ANSEWERS RELATED TO Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders with Tater Tots and Salad:

1. What type of ranch seasoning is best for this recipe?

  • You can use store-bought ranch seasoning or make your own by combining dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. Can I marinate the chicken tenders in advance?

  • Yes, marinating the chicken tenders in the ranch seasoning and a bit of oil for 30 minutes or more can enhance the flavor.

3. Can I use a different cheese in the Parmesan crusted Shake ‘n Bake?

  • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for unique flavors.

4. How do I prevent the chicken tenders from becoming dry?

  • To keep the chicken tenders juicy, avoid overcooking. Follow the recommended air fryer time and temperature, and consider marinating the chicken before cooking.

5. Can I use frozen tater tots?

  • Yes, you can use frozen tater tots. Adjust the baking time according to the package instructions.

6. What type of salad greens work well with this meal?

  • Fresh and crisp greens like romaine lettuce, mixed salad greens, or spinach are great choices for the salad.

7. How can I make the tater tots extra crispy?

  • For extra crispiness, bake the tater tots a bit longer or spray them lightly with cooking oil before baking.

8. Can I prepare the chicken tenders in the oven instead of the air fryer?

  • Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, flipping them halfway through.

9. What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?

  • Classic ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce are popular choices for dipping these chicken tenders.

10. Can I customize the salad with additional ingredients? – Absolutely! Add your favorite salad ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or avocado to personalize the salad.

11. How can I make the meal more kid-friendly? – Involve kids in the preparation process, let them choose their favorite dipping sauces, and consider serving the meal with a side of ketchup.

12. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? – While the chicken tends to be best fresh, you can prepare the salad and tater tots in advance. Reheat the tater tots in the oven for crispiness.

13. Are there any variations for the Parmesan crusted coating? – Experiment with different types of flavored Shake ‘n Bake coatings or add a pinch of your favorite herbs and spices to the Parmesan mixture.

14. How do I store leftovers? – Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken tenders and tater tots in the oven for the best results.

15. Can I use a different cut of chicken instead of tenderloins? – Yes, you can use chicken breast strips or even chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Feel free to adapt these answers based on your preferences and enjoy your Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders with Tater Tots and Salad! 🍗🥔🥗

 

Here are some tips to make your dish absolutely perfect:

  1. Quality Chicken Tenderloins:
    • Start with high-quality chicken tenderloins. Look for fresh, lean cuts to ensure juicy and tender chicken.
  2. Even Coating is Key:
    • Ensure an even coating of the Parmesan-ranch mixture on each chicken tender. This creates a uniform layer of flavor and crunch.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer before placing the chicken tenders in. This helps achieve that perfect golden crispiness.
  4. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket:
    • Arrange the chicken tenders with some space between them in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
  5. Monitor Cooking Time:
    • Keep a close eye on the cooking time. Overcooking can result in dry chicken, while undercooking may lead to a lack of crispiness.
  6. Spritz with Cooking Spray:
    • Lightly spritz the chicken tenders with cooking spray before air frying. This helps enhance the crispiness of the coating.
  7. Experiment with Cheese:
    • Experiment with different cheeses in the Parmesan crusted Shake ‘n Bake. Combining Parmesan with another flavorful cheese can add depth to the coating.
  8. Fresh Salad Greens:
    • Use fresh and crisp salad greens for the salad. Romaine lettuce or mixed greens work well and provide a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken and tots.
  9. Toss Salad Just Before Serving:
    • Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent sogginess.
  10. Serve Immediately:
    • Serve the dish immediately after cooking to enjoy the optimal crispiness of the chicken tenders and tater tots.
  11. Garnish for Visual Appeal:
    • Garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness.
  12. Include Colorful Veggies in Salad:
    • Add vibrant and colorful vegetables to the salad for both visual appeal and nutritional value. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots work well.
  13. Warm Tater Tots Before Serving:
    • If preparing tater tots in advance, warm them in the oven just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
  14. Dipping Sauce Variety:
    • Offer a variety of dipping sauces for the chicken tenders, such as classic ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue, to cater to different preferences.
  15. Create a Beautiful Presentation:
    • Arrange the meal on the plate thoughtfully for a visually appealing presentation. A well-presented dish is always more enticing.

Remember, cooking is an art, and these secrets are meant to inspire your creativity. Adjust these tips based on your preferences and enjoy the delicious perfection of Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders with Tater Tots and Salad! 🍗🥔🥗