Buffalo Ranch Baked Chicken Strips

Tender spicy chicken strips coated in zingy buffalo sauce with a cool touch of ranch have saved dinner on more than one wild weeknight at my house These Buffalo Ranch Baked Chicken Strips are family approved perfect for easy meals or parties and so much better than takeout

I originally made this for a Game Day get together and now my kids ask me to double the batch every time we do movie night

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders or strips: Chicken breast cut into strips works too Look for plump pieces for juicier results
• Buffalo sauce: This is the backbone of the flavor Choose a sauce that balances heat and tang I love using Original Frank's or make your own for a twist
• Ranch seasoning: Adds creamy herbed depth Go for a quality packet or make your own blend for extra freshness
• Extra buffalo sauce: Used as a final brush on the hot strips for flavor and glossy look
• Extra ranch seasoning: Used with the sauce topping for more big ranch flavor

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Mix the ranch seasoning and buffalo sauce in a large bowl until smooth Add chicken strips and toss so each piece is fully coated Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour letting them marinate overnight is even better for deeper flavor

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup or use an oven rack on top of the sheet for crispier edges

Arrange the Chicken:

Take the marinated chicken from the bowl Do not wipe off any extra sauce Lay strips on your baking sheet or rack spaced out so air can circulate for even baking

Bake and Finish:

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through The juices should run clear and the coating will be lightly caramelized Right after removing from the oven brush each strip with the extra buffalo ranch sauce mixture for an extra punch of flavor

Buffalo sauce is without a doubt my favorite ingredient here The way it caramelizes in the oven is irresistible I will never forget the first time we made these for a football crowd and the platter vanished in minutes

Storage Tips

Let the cooked chicken strips cool completely before storing Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days To reheat bake at 350 degrees just until warmed through so the coating stays flavorful and tender

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have store bought buffalo sauce mix melted butter with hot sauce and a dash of vinegar For ranch seasoning try Greek yogurt dip mix or blend dried dill parsley chives onion and garlic powder

Serving Suggestions

Pile these strips into wraps over salads or serve with celery and carrot sticks plus a cool ranch dip They also make an easy protein for a grain bowl or party platter

Cultural Context

Buffalo chicken combines American bar food roots with the classic comfort of ranch It brings together spicy and cool flavors for that iconic wing experience in an easy baked form My family always connects this with celebrations like sporting events and fun weekends

Seasonal Adaptations

Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives in spring Swap hot honey for half the buffalo sauce in summer for a sweeter kick Serve with roasted root veggies during winter for a cozy meal

Success Stories

My friend tried these for her picky eaters and now they request Buffalo Ranch Chicken for their lunchboxes Last time I doubled the recipe for a family reunion and they disappeared before I could grab seconds

Freezer Meal Conversion

Prepare and marinate the chicken strips as directed Place on a baking sheet and freeze in a single layer Once frozen transfer to a freezer bag To cook bake straight from frozen at 400 degrees adding 10 to 12 extra minutes

Buffalo Ranch Baked Chicken Strips always win a crowd and are so easy to adapt for any occasion Try customizing the spice level or serving with your favorite dips for a fun twist

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, or for best flavor, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator.

→ Do I need to drain the marinade before baking?

No need to drain any excess marinade. The chicken can be baked straight from the bowl to retain moisture and flavor.

→ What oven temperature is best for baking?

Bake the chicken strips at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and golden.

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips for similar results. Adjust baking time for thicker pieces as needed.

→ What can I serve with these chicken strips?

Pair them with celery, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. They also go well with fries or a creamy dipping sauce.