Description
This Baked Ranch Chicken recipe features juicy boneless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful ranch seasoning and breadcrumb mixture, baked to a perfect golden crisp. It combines easy preparation with classic comfort flavors, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option that pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating Mixture
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent the chicken from sticking and to aid in even cooking.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly to ensure an even blend of flavors for coating the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Brush the olive oil on both sides of the chicken breasts to help the coating stick and provide moisture during baking. Then, dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres evenly.
- Bake: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring safe consumption.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- You can substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Leftover baked ranch chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can enhance the flavor.
