This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is a winner for busy nights! Just season chicken with ranch dressing mix, pop it in the oven, and you’re set for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can also use chicken thighs for more flavor or if you prefer dark meat.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a great flavor boost! If you don’t have a packet, you can mix your own using onion powder, garlic powder, dried dill, and black pepper. It’s a fun way to customize the flavors!
Sour Cream vs. Greek Yogurt: I use sour cream for a creamy texture, but Greek yogurt is a fantastic, healthier alternative that still keeps the dish rich. Both work beautifully!
Cheddar Cheese: The cheese is optional but adds a nice touch. Feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a little heat!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there’s an easy way to ensure it’s perfectly done. The key is to use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Here’s a quick guide:
- Cook the chicken uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast.
- If it’s not at 165°F yet, continue baking and check every 3-5 minutes.
- For an extra touch, broil for 2-3 minutes to get that golden color.
With these tips, you’re sure to get juicy baked ranch chicken every time!
Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 35-40 minutes. It’s a super quick way to have dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ranch Coating:
In a small bowl, take your ranch seasoning mix and combine it with sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Stir well until it’s all mixed together and creamy.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Now, take the chicken breasts and place them in your greased baking dish. Lightly season them with salt and pepper to add extra flavor.
4. Coat with Ranch Mixture:
Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Make sure each one is nicely coated for maximum flavor!
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you love cheese, this is where you sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top of the ranch-covered chicken. It will melt and create a gooey, cheesy topping.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
7. Optional Broiling:
If you like your chicken extra golden, you can switch to the broil setting for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a minute. If you’d like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm with your favorite sides like veggies, rice, or salad.
Enjoy your quick and delicious baked ranch chicken!
FAQ for Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can! Just remember that bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. Make sure to bake it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
To make this dish lower in carbs, serve the chicken with non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower instead of rice or pasta. You can also skip the cheese if you’re cutting carbs.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning Mix?
No worries! You can make your own by mixing equal parts of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and black pepper. Adjust the quantities to your taste for a homemade ranch flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it’s dry.
