If you’re craving something vibrant, full of flavor, and a little bit spicy but still on the healthier side, these Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips are going to be your new go-to. This recipe brings together the bold kick of buffalo sauce and the cool, herby flavor of ranch seasoning, making each bite a delicious adventure. The best part? These chicken strips are baked, not fried, so you get all the mouthwatering taste without the guilt. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these strips are simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and every single one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of zesty, creamy, and tender chicken. Each element is simple but when combined, they bring out the unique character of this dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

1 pound chicken tenders/strips: Tender cuts that cook quickly and stay juicy without drying out.
1/4 cup buffalo sauce: Adds the classic spicy and tangy buffalo flavor that makes this dish sing.
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning: Brings in the herby, savory notes that balance out the heat.
2 tablespoons buffalo sauce (for brushing): Used for an extra glaze to keep those strips flavorful and moist right before serving.
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning (for brushing): Adds a final boost of ranch goodness for that irresistible coating.

How to Make Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This temperature is perfect for baking the chicken strips so they cook evenly and develop a beautiful, slightly crisp exterior without drying out.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce with 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning. This marinade is where the magic begins—making sure every chicken strip is infused with those sweet, spicy, and herby flavors.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Toss your chicken tenders in the marinade, coating them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour or even overnight if you can plan ahead. This resting time allows the chicken to soak up all the buffalo ranch goodness, guaranteeing a punch of flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Prepare to Bake

Take the chicken strips out of the marinade and place them directly on an oven rack or baking sheet. There’s no need to drain off the extra marinade; it will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful. Just be sure not to crowd the strips so they bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake and Glaze

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and slightly crisp around the edges. When they come out of the oven, generously brush the strips with a blend of 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce and 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning. This final step gives the strips a glossy finish and an extra pop of flavor.

How to Serve Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips to next-level delicious. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. If you love a bit of cooling contrast, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream is fantastic alongside the spicy strips.

Side Dishes

These baked chicken strips pair beautifully with crunchy celery sticks and baby carrots, classic buffalo companions that add texture and lighten the meal. For a heartier option, creamy mashed cauliflower or a crisp mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette creates a balanced plate that complements the spicy chicken without overwhelming it.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve your chicken strips in warm whole-grain wraps with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a delicious buffalo ranch wrap. Alternatively, turn them into a vibrant salad topping alongside avocado, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta for a fresh twist that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for an excellent quick snack or addition to salads during the week.

Freezing

You can freeze these chicken strips to enjoy later by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored frozen for up to 2 months without losing their delicious flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken strips on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken soggy and less appetizing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken tenders in the refrigerator before marinating to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Since these chicken strips have no breading, they are naturally gluten-free—just double-check your buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning to be sure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I make this recipe spicier or milder?

Definitely. Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat level; less for milder, more for a fiery kick. You can also add a bit of honey to balance out the spice if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Chicken tenders or chicken strips are ideal because they cook quickly and remain tender, but you could also use thinly sliced chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I use store-bought ranch seasoning?

Yes, store-bought ranch seasoning works well and makes this recipe super convenient. Just choose a brand without added sugars or excessive preservatives for a healthier option.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to add a healthy, flavorful, and downright delicious dish to your meal rotation, these Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips are calling your name. They effortlessly combine spicy and creamy flavors with juicy, tender chicken, making them perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 29 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips are a flavorful and low-fat alternative to traditional fried chicken. These chicken tenders are marinated in a zesty buffalo sauce blended with ranch seasoning, then baked to juicy perfection without any breading. This recipe is perfect for a quick, protein-packed lunch or dinner that delivers bold flavors while keeping calories and carbs in check.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

1 pound chicken tenders/strips

Marinade

1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning

Additional Topping

2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the chicken strips evenly and getting that slightly crispy edge without frying.
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup buffalo sauce with 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning, mixing thoroughly to blend the spicy and creamy flavors together.
Marinate the chicken: Toss the chicken tenders in the buffalo ranch marinade, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Arrange for baking: Remove the chicken from the marinade without draining off the excess sauce and place the strips on an oven rack or baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to prevent steaming and promote even cooking.
Bake the chicken: Cook the chicken strips in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until they are cooked through and slightly browned on the edges.
Add finishing sauce: After baking, brush each chicken strip with the additional buffalo sauce mixed with ranch seasoning (not the marinade used earlier) for an extra kick of flavor and moisture.

Notes

Marinating overnight enhances the flavor, but at least one hour is sufficient if short on time.
Using an oven rack allows excess moisture to drip away and ensures crispier chicken strips.
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the spice level to your preference.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs since there’s no breading involved.
Serve with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic buffalo chicken experience.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American