This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for beginners! Juicy chicken breasts are coated with zesty ranch seasoning and baked to perfection.
I love how simple it is to prepare—you just sprinkle the seasoning, pop it in the oven, and relax! It’s a hit at family dinners, and honestly, who doesn’t love ranch flavor? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a different protein, turkey breasts or chicken thighs could be good alternatives, just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Ranch Seasoning: You can use a store-bought ranch seasoning packet, but homemade is even better! Just mix equal parts dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. If you’re dairy-free, check for a dairy-free ranch powder option.
Sour Cream: Sour cream gives creaminess to the ranch mix. If you don’t have it, plain Greek yogurt works perfectly. You can also use low-fat options if you want to lighten up the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Adding shredded cheddar on top is an optional step that I love! If you’re not a fan of cheddar, feel free to substitute with mozzarella or any cheese you enjoy.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be a challenge, so here are some tips to help you out:
- Always preheat your oven. This way, the chicken cooks evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- If you start to notice the chicken browning too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture and makes it more tender.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have juicy, tasty 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
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes to get a delicious meal on the table, perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a nice, hot environment for baking your chicken evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. Mix the Ranch Coating:
In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning and sour cream until well combined. This will create a delicious creamy base for the chicken.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, which helps the seasoning stick. Then lightly season them with salt and pepper for flavor.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Spread a generous layer of the ranch mixture over each chicken breast, making sure they’re well coated for maximum flavor!
6. Place in the Baking Dish:
Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they have a little space between them for even cooking.
7. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the chicken for a cheesy finish.
8. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you added cheese, you can then switch to the broil setting for an additional 2-3 minutes to get that gooey, bubbly goodness. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
10. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute! Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if you like, then serve.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender baked ranch chicken! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish the whole family will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs, they can be used instead of breasts. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute! It provides a similar creaminess with a bit of tang. For a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free sour cream alternatives that are widely available.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken with the ranch coating a day in advance! Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist when reheating.
