This is one of the all-time kid's favorite dinners. It's perfect for a quick dinner on Friday nights before the big game, or any other night you don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It certainly isn't the healthiest dinner out there, but sometimes that's okay. Not every dinner needs to top the health charts.
If you happen to have extra time on your hands, consider making your own French fries. This used to be a much bigger undertaking, back when making French fries meant using hot oil. With the advent of the air fryer, however, French fries can now be made easily.
Grab some potatoes and cut them into French fry shapes. The French fry shape you choose depends on your preference, but for the first-time fry makers out there we suggest just sticking to the regular shape. Make sure to salt them, and then season however else you want.
Instead of Cheddar cheese, you can also use a garlic parmesan mix. This is a great way to turn French fries extra savory. Kids will still enjoy these, since they taste just as good as Cheddar fries. It's an easy way to change this recipe up after you've made it a few times.
Crunchy Ranch Chicken Tenders with Cheese Fries
Ingredients:
8 ½ ounce package cornbread muffin mix
1 ounce package ranch salad dressing mix
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 ½ lbs) cut into strips
2 Tablespoons cooking oil
1 package frozen French fries
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
1. Place frozen French fries in oven according to package directions.
2. Combine cornbread mix, salad dressing mix, and salt in a large plastic zip block bag; set aside.
3. Pour milk into a shallow bowl. Dip chicken into milk; place in cornbread mixture and shake to coat.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add chicken, cook until golden on both sides, about 6 to 7 minutes per side or until juices run clear.
6. Five minutes before French fries are done, sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Continue baking until cheese is melted.
Makes 6 servings.