Baked Ranch Chicken is an incredibly simple yet delicious dish where juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with bold ranch flavors and baked to golden perfection. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with savory goodness that everyone in the family will love. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ounce (1 packet) ranch seasoning mix
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and drizzle the olive oil over them.
In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure they are well-coated.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the chicken is golden brown on top.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
Cheesy Ranch Chicken: Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the chicken in the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, gooey topping.
Herb-Ranch Chicken: Mix in dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the seasoning blend for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. You can also use the microwave for quicker reheating, though the texture may be slightly different.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and season it a day in advance, then store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake it. This makes for a super convenient meal prep option.
What can I serve with baked ranch chicken?
I love serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. The chicken will also be golden brown on top.
Can I freeze baked ranch chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When reheating, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it up.
Conclusion
Baked Ranch Chicken is the kind of recipe I go to when I want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. It's easy to prepare, uses just a few ingredients, and always comes out delicious. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Recipe:
Baked Ranch Chicken
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Baked Ranch Chicken is an easy, flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken breasts with bold ranch seasoning for a delicious, golden-brown finish. This simple dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or satisfying the whole family. With just a few ingredients, it's quick to make and versatile enough to pair with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ounce (1 packet) ranch seasoning mix
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and drizzle olive oil over them.
- In a small bowl, mix ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For variations, try adding cayenne pepper for spice, shredded cheese for a cheesy topping, or dried herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or use the microwave for faster reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
