This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is a real crowd-pleaser! With juicy chicken breasts coated in flavorful ranch seasoning, it’s perfect for a simple dinner.
Who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? Just pop it in the oven and relax while it cooks. I often pair it with veggies or rice for a tasty, complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. You could also use thighs for extra juiciness, or even bone-in pieces if you’re okay with a longer cooking time.
Ranch Seasoning: The packet of ranch seasoning gives great flavor. If you don’t have it, you can make your own using a mix of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise keeps the chicken moist and adds creaminess. If you prefer a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute.
Chedder Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness. Feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda if you want different flavors.
Olive Oil or Butter: Both add richness. You can skip it to reduce fat, or use avocado oil for a different taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Moist and Tender?
Cooking chicken so it’s moist can be tricky, but there are some great tips to help. First, don’t over-season the chicken before adding the ranch mixture; a light seasoning is all you need.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Bake your chicken until it’s just cooked through, about 25-30 minutes is perfect.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps juices redistribute, making for juicier bites.
Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 25-30 minutes of cooking time. So, in just under an hour, you can have a tasty dinner ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice, golden top.
2. Prepare the Ranch Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix with mayonnaise. Mix well until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the flavorful coating for your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Lightly season them with salt and pepper to taste. This step adds a little extra flavor!
4. Spread the Ranch Mixture:
Evenly spread the ranch mixture over the tops of each chicken breast. Make sure to cover them well for that delicious flavor.
5. Add Olive Oil or Butter:
Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the chicken breasts. This adds moisture and makes them even more tasty!
6. Sprinkle with Cheese:
Now, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each chicken breast. Yum! Cheese makes everything better, right?
7. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C).
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the meat juicy!
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish your chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your scrumptious dinner!
There you have it – a simple, flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy your Easy Baked Ranch Chicken and happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and will yield even more juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can certainly lighten this dish! Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, making sure to cover it to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Freeze This Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.
