This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is perfect for busy nights! It features juicy chicken coated in a delicious ranch seasoning that you can whip up in no time.
I love how the oven does all the work while I kick back or help my kids with homework. It’s a win-win for everyone! Just serve it with veggies or rice for a great meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here for quick cooking. If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs are a tasty alternative. They may take slightly longer to cook but will add great flavor.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the star flavor. If you don’t have a packet, you can easily make your own blend using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and onion powder, plus a bit of salt. It’s just as good!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy crunch. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or omit it altogether.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: These spices enhance the flavor. You can swap garlic powder for fresh minced garlic or omit it. Instead of paprika, smoked paprika gives a lovely depth, but it’s optional.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Moist While Baking?
Keeping chicken moist during baking is essential for great texture. Here are some tips:
- First, pat the chicken dry. This helps the oil and seasoning stick better.
- Drizzling with olive oil or melted butter not only adds flavor but also locks in moisture.
- Baking at a higher temperature (400°F) allows the outside to crisp up while keeping the inside juicy. Make sure to check the internal temp with a meat thermometer; 165°F is perfect.
- Let the chicken rest after baking for 5 minutes. This step allows juices to redistribute so it stays juicy when you slice it!
How to Make Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Seasoning:
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect to serve this delicious dish in about 30-35 minutes, perfect for those busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly and get that nice golden crust.
2. Prepare the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better. Place them in a lightly greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
4. Add Moisture:
Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the chicken. This will keep the chicken juicy while baking.
5. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Press the mixture gently so it sticks well to the chicken. This seasoning will give amazing flavor!
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a lovely golden crust.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute, making for moister chicken. Before serving, you can garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like.
8. Serve:
Enjoy your Easy Baked Ranch Chicken! It’s wonderful served with your favorite side dishes like steamed vegetables, salad, or rice.
This recipe is super simple yet packed with flavor, making it a quick go-to for busy nights. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They may take a bit longer to cook, so make sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can create your own using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and onion powder, plus a dash of salt. This homemade mix still gives that great flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season the chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerated them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bake them within a day for the best flavor and texture!
