Description
This Baked Ranch Chicken is a flavorful and juicy dish that’s incredibly simple to prepare. Coated in a zesty ranch seasoning and baked to golden perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
(Serves 4-6)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Rub each chicken breast with olive oil or melted butter to help the seasoning stick and keep the chicken moist.
3. Season the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake:
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil.
5. Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy topping.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.