– **Title**: Baked Ranch Chicken
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring it is fully coated.
4. Then, coat the chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to adhere as much of the mixture as possible.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spacing them apart.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
7. Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Baked Ranch Chicken!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey cutlets instead.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is key for flavor. If you can’t find a packet, you can make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. Just mix 1 tsp of each to taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for its light and crispy texture. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. You can swap it with grated Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt: This combo gives moisture and creaminess. You can use all mayo or swap Greek yogurt for sour cream, depending on what you have on hand.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Is Fully Cooked and Crispy?
Cooking chicken to the perfect doneness while achieving that crispy coating can be tricky. Follow these tips:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly to ensure even cooking.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the coating stick better and reduces moisture.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are evenly coated with the mayo mixture for consistent crispiness.
- During baking, keep an eye on the chicken in the last few minutes. You want it golden brown but not overcooked.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
How to Make Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
For The Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe involves about 10 minutes of prep time and then 25-30 minutes of baking in the oven. So, you can have a tasty meal ready in about 40 minutes! Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This will help the chicken not stick to the dish.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chopped parsley. Stir this mixture well and set it aside while you prepare the chicken.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
In another bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to this mixture for flavor. Next, take each chicken breast and pat it dry with paper towels, seasoning both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Now, take each chicken breast and coat it in the mayonnaise mixture. Make sure they are well covered, as this helps the breadcrumbs stick. Then, dredge each coated chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere nicely.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Arrange the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish, making sure they have some space between them. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the coating to be golden and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. If you like, garnish with a bit more chopped fresh parsley for a nice pop of color. Enjoy your delicious Baked Ranch Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. They may take a little longer to cook, so aim for about 30-35 minutes baking time. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to make sure they are fully cooked.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Mayonnaise?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use more Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Just keep the ratio roughly the same. For added creaminess, consider mixing in a teaspoon of lemon juice or even a little mustard for extra flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Ranch Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep the coating crispy!
Can I Make This Recipe with a Gluten-Free Coating?
Definitely! Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The cooking process and seasoning remain the same, so you won’t miss a beat!
