This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is a winner for busy nights! Just toss chicken with ranch dressing, bake, and enjoy a tasty meal without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish since they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can use thighs or even drumsticks if you prefer dark meat. Just be aware they may take a bit longer to cook.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: The ranch mix is key here for flavor. If you can’t find a packet, try mixing equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like dill and parsley. This gives a close homemade flavor, which I often prefer.
Ranch Dressing: You can use any ranch dressing you like. For a healthier spin, consider Greek yogurt or a low-fat version. It still tastes good while cutting calories!
Cheddar Cheese: While optional, cheddar adds a nice creamy layer. Feel free to swap it for mozzarella or pepper jack if you want something mild or spicy.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To make sure your chicken comes out juicy and tender, follow these simple steps:
- Dry the chicken: Patting the chicken dry helps the seasoning stick better.
- Season simply: A little salt and pepper goes a long way, letting the ranch flavors shine through.
- Rest after cooking: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute. You’ll be thanking yourself for this step!
By following these tips, your baked ranch chicken will turn out delicious every time!
How to Make Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or more as needed)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked ranch chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and only 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and hassle-free meal that you can whip up on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your chicken. While the oven heats up, you can prepare your baking dish.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. This will also add a little extra flavor during the cooking process.
3. Season the Chicken
Take the chicken breasts out and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better! Next, lightly season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the greased baking dish. Make sure they’re not crowded so they cook evenly.
5. Add Ranch Dressing
Spread the ranch dressing evenly over each piece of chicken. This not only provides flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during baking.
6. Sprinkle Ranch Seasoning
Now, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken, making sure to cover each piece well for maximum flavor.
7. Optional Cheese Layer
If you like a cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken now. It will melt beautifully and add extra richness.
8. Bake the Chicken
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink inside.
9. Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to settle, ensuring your chicken is juicy and tender.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve your baked ranch chicken with delicious sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice. Enjoy this quick and flavorful dinner!
Happy cooking! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it must be completely thawed first for even cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or use the quick method of placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water until thawed.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing mayonnaise with a little milk, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Aim for a creamy consistency similar to ranch dressing, and adjust the flavors to your liking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked ranch chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or gently on the stove, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add cut-up vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots to the baking dish at the same time as the chicken. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as some veggies may require a few extra minutes to become tender.
