If you are craving a dinner that feels comforting yet packed with flavor, the Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines the creamy tang of ranch seasoning with the crisp texture of breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese, all baked to juicy perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that tastes as inviting as it looks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each one plays a pivotal role in creating the delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors you’ll love. The ranch dressing mix brings that signature herbaceous kick, breadcrumbs add a golden crunch, and Parmesan cheese enriches the poultry with an irresistible umami punch.
- 1 ounce ranch dressing mix: This is the heart of the flavor, providing herbs and spices that take the chicken from simple to sensational.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: For that satisfying crispy coating that makes every bite delightful.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, creamy richness that complements the ranch seasoning beautifully.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein that stays juicy inside with a perfectly textured crust outside.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Helps the coating stick to the chicken and keeps the meat moist while baking.
How to Make Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by warming your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This initial setup ensures even cooking and makes cleanup easier. Having the dish prepared lets you move quickly once the chicken is ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare Coating Mixture
In one shallow dish, mix together the ranch dressing mix, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese until the ingredients are evenly combined. In a second shallow dish, place the mayonnaise. These separate elements prepare your chicken for that amazing crunchy and creamy crust.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast first into the mayonnaise, thoroughly coating it. Then press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to cover it completely with the flavorful coating. The mayonnaise acts as the perfect glue here, ensuring every inch is covered and ready for baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish and place them in the oven. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer hits 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken. This results in tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, golden crust.
How to Serve Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a hit of freshness that complements the savory richness of the baked ranch chicken beautifully. Consider also a light drizzle of extra ranch dressing for those who love extra flavor layers.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs marvelously with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. The creamy and crunchy texture of the chicken brings contrast to soft or fresh sides, making the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the baked ranch chicken breast and layer it over warm toasted ciabatta bread for a gourmet sandwich, or serve it atop a bed of buttery pasta with steamed broccoli. The versatility of this recipe means you can dress it up or keep it simple, depending on your mood.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked ranch chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making your next meal just as delicious without any extra effort.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover chicken breasts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through to maintain the crispy coating. Alternatively, use a toaster oven for quicker reheating without losing that crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more fat and moisture, resulting in a juicier dish. Just adjust the baking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.
Is ranch dressing mix the same as salad dressing mix?
Ranch dressing mix specifically has a blend of herbs and spices characteristic of ranch flavor, which differs from other salad dressing mixes. Using ranch dressing mix is key to achieving that signature taste in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients should already be gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise if I don’t have any?
Sour cream or Greek yogurt can be used as alternatives to mayonnaise and will also help the coating stick while adding moisture.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer; the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked once it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe is a true gem for any home cook looking to add a bit of excitement to their weeknight dinners. It’s easy, flavorful, and leaves you with a beautifully cooked piece of chicken that’s hard not to love. Give it a try and make it your new go-to meal for cozy, delicious evenings at home.
Print
Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Ranch Chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of ranch seasoning, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, combining creamy mayonnaise with a crispy, cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Coating Ingredients
- 1 ounce ranch dressing mix
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Chicken & Binding
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together ranch dressing mix, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. In a separate shallow dish, spread out the mayonnaise for dipping the chicken.
- Coat Chicken: Take each chicken breast and first dredge it thoroughly in the mayonnaise, ensuring an even layer on all sides. Next, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture so that the coating sticks well, covering it evenly. Place each coated chicken breast carefully into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Bake the coated chicken breasts in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the coating.
- If preferred, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- To make this dish gluten-free, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
