Baked Ranch Chicken

Looking for a quick, delicious, and family-approved chicken recipe? Baked Ranch Chicken is the answer! Packed with creamy ranch flavor and baked to perfection, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Follow this easy recipe for a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Baked Ranch Chicken, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning mix, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
2. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt over each chicken breast.
3. Coat the chicken in the ranch mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.

Step 3: Bake

1. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. For a crispy finish, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without overbaking.
2. Make It Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for extra kick.
3. Double the Batch: This recipe freezes well, making it a great meal prep option.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 17g

Serving and Storage Tips for Baked Ranch Chicken

Serving Suggestions

Baked Ranch Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complement your meal:

1. Vegetable Sides: Serve with roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or steamed broccoli for a healthy balance.
2. Carbs for Comfort: Pair with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or wild rice to soak up the delicious flavors.
3. Fresh Salads: A crisp garden salad or coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast.
4. Bread or Rolls: Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are perfect for rounding out the meal.

For an extra touch, drizzle the chicken with a bit of ranch dressing or garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing for Later

• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming in the oven.

Reheating Tips

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in 30-second intervals to prevent overcooking.
• Air Fryer: For a crispy texture, reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Baked Ranch Chicken fresh or as a tasty leftover!

1. Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of ranch seasoning?
Yes, you can use store-bought ranch dressing, but it will slightly change the texture of the coating. Instead of mixing the dressing into the breading, marinate the chicken in the dressing for 1-2 hours before baking for a rich ranch flavor.

2. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Double-check that your ranch seasoning mix is also certified gluten-free.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken up to the coating step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or busy schedules.

4. What other cheeses can I use instead of Parmesan?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute it with grated Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even shredded cheddar for a different flavor twist. Each cheese brings its unique taste to the dish!

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