Baked Ranch Chicken

This Baked Ranch Chicken is coated in a crispy Parmesan-Panko crust and seasoned with ranch for ultimate flavor. Perfectly moist and delicious, it’s a family favorite that’s easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and herbs infuses the chicken with a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Crispy Texture: The outer coating of Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese bakes up to a fantastic golden crisp, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Moist and Tender: The cooking method ensures that the chicken stays juicy and tender.
• Versatile: It pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, from vegetables and salads to pastas and grains, making meal planning flexible and exciting.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is easy to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family Favorite: Its universally appealing flavors make it a hit among both adults and children, ensuring a meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• Ranch seasoning mix
• Dill weed
• Onion powder
• Ground black pepper
• Salt
• Garlic, grated
• Mayonnaise
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally to make fillets

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, dill weed, onion powder, ground black pepper, salt, grated garlic, and mayonnaise until well combined.
3. Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter, mixing thoroughly.
4. Coat the Chicken: Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over each chicken fillet, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each coated chicken fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake: Cook in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes.
• Total Time: Around 25 minutes.

Variations

• Mayonnaise Alternatives: I use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier coating.
• Different Cuts: I try using chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts for more flavor and juiciness.
• Cheese Options: I swap out Parmesan for another hard cheese like Asiago or Pecorino for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: I add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the ranch seasoning for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: I use gluten-free Panko or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: I reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: I freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

FAQs

What can I serve with Baked Ranch Chicken?

I like to serve this dish with steamed broccoli and creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of the seasoning mix?

Yes, I substitute the dry ranch seasoning mix with ranch dressing, adjusting the amount to taste.

How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?

Coating the chicken with the mayonnaise mixture helps retain moisture during baking, resulting in juicy and tender meat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

I prepare the chicken up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. When ready to serve, I bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

To make it low-carb, I use crushed pork rinds instead of Panko breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

This Baked Ranch Chicken offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it a standout dish for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and versatility ensure it will become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether serving family or guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

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