Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe

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Baked Ranch Chicken is a flavorful, tender, and juicy dish that combines the tangy zest of ranch seasoning with the rich taste of perfectly baked chicken. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a meal for guests, or even a weeknight treat, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, you’ll have a wholesome, hearty meal on the table in no time.

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This comprehensive guide will take you through every step, from choosing the best chicken cuts to perfecting the ranch seasoning blend and achieving a crispy, golden finish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor: The ranch seasoning offers a delicious tangy, herbaceous kick.
2. Versatile: Pair it with almost any side dish, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes.
3. Healthy Option: Baked, not fried, making it a lighter alternative.
4. Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cleanup make it perfect for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Clean and Trim: Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat or skin if necessary.
2. Tenderize: Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (if using), garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Add Oil: Drizzle olive oil or melted butter into the mixture and stir until crumbly and well-blended.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush each chicken piece with olive oil or butter to help the coating adhere.
2. Dredge in Coating: Press each chicken piece into the seasoning mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

1. Arrange on Pan: Place the coated chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece.
2. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes for boneless breasts or thighs and 35-40 minutes for bone-in cuts. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Optional Broil: For a crispy top, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps retain juices and enhances flavor.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Tips for Success

1. Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts to the same thickness to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
2. Crispy Coating: Add panko breadcrumbs to the seasoning mixture for an extra crunchy texture.
3. Use a Thermometer: Ensure perfect doneness by using a meat thermometer.
4. Moisture Lock: Cover the baking dish with foil for the first half of the baking time to keep the chicken moist.

Side Dish Pairings

1. Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and potatoes.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory chicken.
3. Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy salad adds balance to the dish.
4. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice makes a great base for the flavorful chicken.

Variations

1. Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
2. Herbed Chicken: Incorporate Italian seasoning or fresh thyme for an herbal twist.
3. Cheesy Delight: Top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar during the last 5 minutes of baking.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and work well with this recipe. Adjust cooking times as needed.
2. What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
   You can make your own blend (recipe above) or substitute with Italian seasoning.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Yes! Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
4. Can I air-fry this chicken?
   Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

The History of Ranch Seasoning

Ranch seasoning originated in the 1950s, created by Steve Henson, who developed the mix as a salad dressing for his ranch in California. Its tangy, herbaceous flavor quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple for salads, dips, and marinades. Today, it’s a beloved ingredient for recipes like this Baked Ranch Chicken.

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Conclusion

Baked Ranch Chicken is a foolproof recipe for a flavorful, crispy, and juicy meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress. With its customizable seasoning, minimal prep, and straightforward cooking method, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

So preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
30 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (if using breadcrumbs)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a small amount of olive oil.

2. Prepare the Ranch Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until well blended.

3. Coat the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
2. Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the top and sides of each chicken breast.

4. Optional Crispy Topping

1. If you want a crunchy finish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the coated chicken breasts.

5. Bake the Chicken

1. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. If using breadcrumbs, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy topping.

6. Serve

• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Chicken Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the chicken with the ranch mixture up to 8 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

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