Name: Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ounce ranch dressing mix; ½ cup breadcrumbs; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; ½ cup mayonnaise

This Baked Ranch Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a crispy ranch-flavored breading and baked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s great for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Crispy: The ranch seasoning and breadcrumbs create a flavorful and crispy coating, while the chicken stays juicy and tender on the inside.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is a breeze to prepare.
Versatile: Serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Baked Ranch Chicken:

Ranch dressing mix: Adds a classic ranch flavor to the breading.
Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy coating.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, adds a salty and nutty flavor to the crust.
Chicken breasts: Skinless and boneless, for a lean protein source.
Mayonnaise: Helps the breading adhere to the chicken and adds moisture.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Baked Ranch Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Make the Breading

In a shallow plate or bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well. In another shallow plate, spread the mayonnaise.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in the mayonnaise, coating both sides. Then, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the breading adhere. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken registers 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your chicken and breadcrumbs, the better the flavor and texture of the dish.
Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in dry and tough chicken. Bake just until cooked through.
Use an instant-read thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

How to Serve Baked Ranch Chicken

Weeknight Meal: This Baked Ranch Chicken is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
With Sides: Serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Lunch or Brunch: Enjoy it for lunch or brunch with a side of fruit or a salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating:

To reheat, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Freezing:

You can freeze the chicken before or after baking. If freezing before baking, place the coated chicken breasts on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or an airtight container to prevent them from freezing together. Freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, let the chicken cool completely before freezing.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I add other seasonings to the breading?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder, to the breadcrumb mixture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your ranch dressing mix is also gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breading mixture.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Baked Ranch Chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!