This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is perfect for busy nights! Juicy chicken is coated in ranch seasoning and baked until golden. It’s quick, tasty, and needs just a few ingredients!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and cook quickly. If you like, you can substitute with thighs for more flavor, or even use chicken tenders for smaller portions.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This gives the chicken a flavorful kick. If you’re out, homemade seasoning can be made using herbs like dill, onion powder, and garlic powder mixed with some salt.
Mayonnaise: This adds moisture and creaminess. If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead for a tangy touch.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice crust and flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, you could try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Tender?
The key to juicy chicken is proper cooking time and temperature. Here’s how to keep your chicken flavorful:
- Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness if possible; this ensures it cooks uniformly.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This keeps the juices locked in.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F is safe for chicken. It helps avoid overcooking.
By following these tips, your Easy Baked Ranch Chicken will come out perfectly every time!
Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra moisture)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you want something quick yet delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil. If you prefer, you can line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup later.
2. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), grated Parmesan cheese, and the olive oil or melted butter. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and creamy.
3. Season the Chicken:
Grab your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice texture. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper, just to enhance the flavor.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Now it’s time to spread that tasty ranch mixture over the chicken breasts. Make sure to cover all sides so each bite is flavorful! Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to do this easily.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts in your greased baking dish. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s done!
6. Crisp It Up (Optional):
If you want a crispy finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Just watch closely to prevent burning!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in. When ready, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve with your favorite sides like rice or veggies!
Enjoy your quick and flavorful Easy Baked Ranch Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw them before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat dry before seasoning and coating.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or sour cream works great as a substitute for mayonnaise. They add moisture and a bit of tanginess without compromising flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. Avoid reheating it too long to keep the chicken tender.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots to the baking dish. Just toss them with a little olive oil and seasoning for great flavor. Adjust the baking time slightly depending on the veggies used.
