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Spicy Parmesan Chicken with Buffalo Ranch Dip

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Crispy, spicy parmesan‑crusted chicken strips served alongside a cool and tangy buffalo ranch dip. Perfect for appetizers, game‑day snacks, or a fun family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts or chicken tenders
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking) or oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream (for dip base)
  • 1/4 cup buffalo hot sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (for dip)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (chives or parsley, optional)
  • 1 tsp white vinegar (optional, for dip tang)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400‑425 °F (200‑220 °C) if baking, or heat oil in skillet if frying.
  2. Slice chicken into strips if using breasts. Pat dry and lightly season with salt and pepper.
  3. Prepare three dredging stations: one bowl with flour (seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper), one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and chili powder.
  4. Coat each chicken piece in flour, then egg, then press into breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture to adhere coating well.
  5. For baking: Place coated chicken on a lined or greased baking sheet. Spray lightly with oil. Bake 15‑25 minutes or until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway. Broil for 1‑2 minutes at end for extra crisp if desired.
  6. For frying: Heat oil to medium‑high. Fry chicken in batches until golden and cooked through, about 3‑4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  7. Make the dip: In a bowl, combine mayo or sour cream with buffalo hot sauce, garlic powder, chopped herbs, and vinegar (if using). Stir well and chill until serving.
  8. Serve chicken with buffalo ranch dip. Garnish with extra Parmesan, herbs, or a drizzle of buffalo sauce.

Notes

  • To reduce spice, omit cayenne and use mild paprika only.
  • To increase heat, add more buffalo sauce or cayenne.
  • Air frying is a good alternative to reduce oil use: cook at 375°F for about 15 minutes.
  • Dip can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Use Greek yogurt as a lighter dip base alternative.

Nutrition