This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is a hit for dinner! Just toss chicken with ranch seasoning and bake until it’s golden and juicy. It’s super simple and packed with flavor!
You won’t believe how quickly this dish comes together. I love serving it with mashed potatoes and a side of veggies. Who knew dinner could be this easy and tasty? Yum! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish simple and quick to cook. If you’re looking for variety, bone-in chicken thighs work great too. They stay juicy and flavorful.
Ranch Seasoning: A packet of ranch seasoning is key for flavor. If you prefer homemade, mix dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder for your own blend. Just adjust based on your taste!
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist. You can swap it with melted butter or avocado oil if desired.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich taste. For a lactose-free option, you can use nutritional yeast, which gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep them juicy:
- Don’t skip resting! Letting the chicken sit after baking helps juices redistribute.
- Use a meat thermometer. Make sure the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) for safe and delicious chicken.
- If you prefer crispy edges, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking to get that perfect finish.
These tips will help you end up with tender, flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying your Easy Baked Ranch Chicken in just 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will make sure your chicken gets that perfect cooking temperature right from the start!
2. Prepare the Ranch Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning with the olive oil. Stir well until they are nicely combined into a smooth mixture.
3. Arrange the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet. You can use parchment paper to line the sheet or grease it lightly with some oil to prevent sticking.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Brush each chicken breast generously with the ranch mixture. Make sure they are well-coated for the best flavor! If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each breast.
5. Season & Bake:
Lightly season with salt and pepper if you like. Then, pop the chicken in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. You can check that it’s done by using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it Rest:
Once your chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This will help keep it juicy and tender!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch. Serve your delicious Easy Baked Ranch Chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitution and tend to be juicier. Just adjust the baking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through, usually around 25-30 minutes.
What Happens If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own ranch seasoning using dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix them together until you reach your desired flavor, or try a similar seasoning mix like Italian herbs for a different twist!
Can I Prep This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can marinate the chicken in the ranch seasoning mixture the night before. Just cover it and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, take it out and bake as instructed. This gives the chicken even more flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy the delicious leftovers!
