Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe

Looking for a simple, delicious, and flavorful dinner option that doesn’t require a lot of time or effort? This easy baked ranch chicken recipe is just what you need! With only a few ingredients, including ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and paprika, this dish is bursting with savory, zesty flavor. Baked to perfection, the chicken is juicy on the inside with a perfectly seasoned, crispy crust on the outside. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this easy baked ranch chicken will quickly become a favorite in your home.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need any complicated steps or fancy ingredients—just a packet of ranch seasoning mix and some common pantry staples. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights or days when you want a stress-free, satisfying meal. Plus, you can easily pair it with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to complete your meal. Ready to impress with minimal effort? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This baked ranch chicken recipe comes together in minutes and requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy days.

2. Bursting with Flavor

The combination of ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika adds a bold, savory flavor to the chicken that everyone will love.

3. Minimal Ingredients

With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious and satisfying meal without any complicated steps or special tools.

4. Family-Friendly

Even picky eaters will love this dish! The ranch seasoning gives the chicken a familiar, comforting taste that’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.

5. Versatile

This recipe is easily customizable—add herbs or swap out spices to suit your taste. You can also pair it with various sides to create a complete meal.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Add Herbs: Feel free to add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley for extra flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the chicken a spicy kick.
• Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will be just as juicy and flavorful.
• Lemon Zest: Add some fresh lemon zest to the seasoning mix for a burst of citrus flavor.
• Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken before baking for a cheesy, crispy crust.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice, golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken, making sure to coat both sides.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. You can also broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end to get a golden, crispy top.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked through without overcooking.
• Make It Even Juicier: If you want extra juicy chicken, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a little olive oil and ranch seasoning mix for 30 minutes before baking.
• Use a Wire Rack: For crispier chicken, place the chicken on a wire rack set on top of the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken and helps it cook evenly.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasoning based on your personal preference. Add more garlic powder for a garlicky kick or more paprika for extra smokiness.

How to Serve

This easy baked ranch chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Pair it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad for a balanced meal. You can also slice the chicken and use it in wraps, sandwiches, or tacos for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover baked ranch chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until the chicken is heated through.

Freezing

For long-term storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake or microwave until hot.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe and will yield a slightly juicier result due to their higher fat content.

2. Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning mix?

You can use ranch dressing as a marinade, but the seasoning mix is the best option for dry seasoning.

3. Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken?

Yes, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, typically 30-40 minutes depending on the size of the pieces.

4. Can I use a different seasoning mix?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other seasoning mixes like Italian seasoning or Cajun seasoning for a different flavor profile.

5. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook this ranch chicken in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 15-18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

6. Can I add vegetables to the baking tray?

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or zucchini to the baking tray. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

7. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure to use a large enough baking sheet and give the chicken enough space to cook evenly.

9. Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Yes, marinating the chicken in the olive oil and ranch seasoning for 30 minutes to 1 hour will give it extra flavor and tenderness.

10. Can I add cheese on top?

Yes, for a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking and let it melt.

Conclusion

This easy baked ranch chicken recipe is a game-changer when it comes to simple, flavorful meals. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious, savory dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or making it ahead for meal prep, this recipe is a winner. The ranch seasoning mix adds a rich, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the tender chicken, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.

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