Description
Bursting with tangy, herby flavors, this easy Baked Ranch Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and taste. Golden, juicy, and delicious, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
- 3 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Season the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine ranch seasoning, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese if using. Coat each chicken piece thoroughly, pressing the mixture gently onto the surface.
- Moisturize and Bake: Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil or brush melted butter over each piece to lock in moisture and encourage browning.
- Cook to Perfection: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For an extra golden crust, broil on high for the final 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Moisture is Key: Brushing the chicken with olive oil or melted butter ensures it stays juicy and helps the coating crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees perfectly tender and safe-to-eat chicken.
- Customize the Coating: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs; for a cheesy twist, add grated Parmesan. You can also skip breadcrumbs for a gluten-free or low-carb option!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins