This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is juicy, tasty, and sure to please everyone! With just a sprinkle of ranch seasoning and some Parmesan cheese, it’s super simple to prepare.
I love to make this dish on busy nights. The chicken comes out so tender and packed with flavor. Plus, the kids love it too—it’s like a chicken hug on a plate! 🐔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. You can opt for thighs if you prefer a juicier cut. They have more fat, which can give you a bit more flavor!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make a homemade version using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. It’s a fantastic way to control the flavor intensity!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty bite! If you’re looking for a substitute, try Pecorino Romano. Nutritional yeast can work as a dairy-free option too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil keeps the chicken juicy and helps the seasoning stick. If you prefer, you can use melted butter or even avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To ensure your chicken stays juicy, a couple of techniques will help. First, make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry to promote even cooking and to get a nice crust. Secondly, don’t skip the resting time after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it moist!
- Preheat your oven to the specified temperature for even cooking.
- Use olive oil to coat the chicken before applying the seasoning. This helps seal in moisture.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F (75°C).
Easy Baked Ranch Chicken – Juicy and Flavorful
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This easy recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes to have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Seasoning Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix it well so all the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a nice crust. Then, brush both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil, which helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist.
4. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Press the seasoning gently to make sure it adheres well to the chicken—this is where all that delicious flavor comes from!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish in a single layer. Bake them uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are no longer pink inside. This is going to smell amazing!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken even juicier! Before serving, you can garnish it with fresh chopped parsley if you like.
Serve your Easy Baked Ranch Chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy your tasty, juicy dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will stay juicier due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need an extra 5-10 minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can make a homemade mix using equal parts of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. You can also try using Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken breasts in the ranch seasoning mixture for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake directly from the fridge, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, to keep the chicken tender.
