Baked Ranch Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Ranch Chicken is a perfect blend of crispy and creamy textures. The ranch seasoning gives the chicken a flavorful, tangy kick, while the breadcrumbs and cheese create a crunchy, cheesy topping that everyone will love. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite seasonings or cheeses!

Ingredients

• 4 6-ounce boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 3 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning or 1.3 ounce packet of store-bought ranch seasoning
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning with the sour cream until smooth.
4. Coat each chicken breast with the ranch-sour cream mixture, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese.
6. Press the sour cream-coated chicken breasts into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
7. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the chicken breasts to help them crisp up in the oven.
8. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden and crispy.
9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
• Spicy version: For a spicy twist, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the ranch seasoning or top the chicken with jalapeños before baking.
• Cheese options: Swap out the cheddar and parmesan for mozzarella or gouda for a different cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Baked Ranch Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, but the breadcrumb topping may lose some of its crispness.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure even cooking and ease of preparation. Bone-in chicken may require a longer cooking time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken with the ranch-sour cream coating and breadcrumb topping ahead of time. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream if you want a tangier flavor and a slightly healthier option.

How can I make the breadcrumbs crunchier?

For a crunchier topping, you can toast the breadcrumbs in a pan with a little butter before coating the chicken.

Can I freeze Baked Ranch Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use store-bought ranch seasoning?

Yes, store-bought ranch seasoning works just as well as homemade ranch seasoning for this recipe.

What side dishes go well with Baked Ranch Chicken?

This dish pairs nicely with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a simple salad, or rice.

Can I make this recipe without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version, or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs can be used if you don’t have panko, though they may not give the same crispy texture.

Conclusion

Baked Ranch Chicken is a flavorful and simple dish that combines tender chicken with a crispy, cheesy topping. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal and can easily be customized to suit your preferences. With minimal preparation and a short bake time, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy. Whether served with a side of vegetables or potatoes, this dish will become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

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