Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips Recipe

Healthy buffalo ranch baked chicken strips Recipe


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

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 pound (approx. 4 strips)
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 1.5 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: buffalo chicken strips, baked chicken strips, healthy chicken recipe, buffalo ranch chicken, low fat chicken strips, gluten free chicken