Naked Chicken Tenders (Chipotle Ranch Version)
Ingredients
- 1 lbboneless
skinless chicken tenderloins, or breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tbspolive oil
or your choice cooking oil
- 2 tbspranch dip mix
- ¼ tspground chipotle pepper powder
or chili powder
- ¼ tspblack pepper
Directions
- 1
Mix the dry ingredients (you can season however you'd like) before mixing with the oil.
- 2
Add the chicken tenderloins and seasoning blend to a resealable bag or container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally longer for more flavor.
- 3
Heat a large saute pan or skillet (make sure you have a cover for the pan) over medium-high heat with nonstick cooking spray.
- 4
Add the marinated chicken tenderloins to the hot pan and leave untouched for 4 minutes.
- 5
Flip and leave untouched for another 2 minutes.
- 6
Turn the heat off, cover, and leave the chicken alone (don't peek or anything) for 6 minutes. Depending on the size of the chicken tenderloins you use, these times may vary slightly. Make sure the juices run clear and/or use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature (165F).
- 7
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and serve with salad, on sandwiches, with veggies, or on their own with a dipping sauce.
Naked Chicken Tenders (Chipotle Ranch Version)
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Based on 212 ratings
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About this Recipe
Craving incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken tenders without the fuss of breading? These Naked Chicken Tenders, infused with a zesty Chipotle Ranch kick, are your answer for an effortlessly delicious meal cooked right on your stove. The magic behind these succulent pan-fried chicken tenders lies in a simple yet powerful dry rub. Combining savory ranch dip mix with a hint of smoky ground chipotle pepper powder (or chili powder), this blend ensures every bite of chicken tenderloin is bursting with flavor. It's truly the best way to cook chicken tenderloins in a pan, delivering tender results without any unnecessary steps or heavy coatings. Prepare for succulent chicken tenderloins that are perfectly cooked and unbelievably tender. Each piece boasts a savory, slightly tangy profile from the ranch, beautifully complemented by a subtle, warm heat from the chipotle. These pan-fried chicken tenders are juicy on the inside with a beautifully seasoned exterior, offering a straightforward, satisfying experience that proves you don't need heavy breading for incredible flavor. At just 95 calories per serving, they're a smart choice for a light yet fulfilling dish.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to swap out the chicken tenderloins for boneless, skinless chicken breasts simply cut into similar strips. If ground chipotle pepper powder isn't available, chili powder makes an excellent substitute for that hint of warmth. While olive oil is suggested, any preferred cooking oil will work for pan-frying these flavorful tenders. These versatile Naked Chicken Tenders are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, nestled into salads, tucked into wraps, or served alongside your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete, wholesome meal.