This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a weeknight staple in your household. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, herby ranch crust. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a casual dinner, this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness for even cooking)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- Cooking spray (or olive oil for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover or seal and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for extra flavor).
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating on all sides.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Juicy
- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden brown.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Minimal Effort: With just a few pantry staples, this dish comes together quickly and easily.
- Kid-Friendly: The crispy coating and mild ranch flavor make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Pair it with almost any side dish—mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or veggies—it works with everything!
Tips for Success:
- Pound the Chicken: Flattening the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
- Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: It tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick better.
- Double the Coating: If you want extra crunch, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and coat it with the breadcrumb mixture a second time.
Ways to Enjoy Your Easy Baked Ranch Chicken:
- With Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for a comforting family meal.
- On Salads: Slice the chicken and add it to a bed of greens with ranch dressing for a hearty salad.
- In Sandwiches: Use the sliced chicken as a filling for sandwiches or wraps with lettuce, tomato, and extra ranch sauce.
- For Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is proof that simple recipes can still be incredibly satisfying. With its crispy, herby crust and juicy interior, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. So grab your chicken, sprinkle that ranch seasoning, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of comfort food goodness! 🍗
