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Baked Ranch Chicken Breast

Baked Ranch Chicken Breast

Baked Ranch Chicken Breast is a simple, flavorful dish combining tender, juicy chicken breasts with zesty ranch seasoning and a crispy golden crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers a comforting meal that appeals to both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, chives, or cilantro)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and allows the chicken to brown evenly while baking.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix with olive oil or melted butter to form a paste. Evenly coat each chicken breast with the mixture, making sure all sides and edges are covered for maximum flavor.
  3. Add Parmesan (Optional): If desired, sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over each coated chicken breast. This adds a savory, crispy crust during baking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a lined baking sheet or greased dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken stays juicy and fully cooked.
  5. Rest and Serve: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting retains the juices, keeping the chicken moist and tender with every bite.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe doneness without overcooking.
  • Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Marinate the chicken with ranch seasoning for 30 minutes ahead of time to enhance flavor absorption.
  • Let the chicken rest before slicing to maintain juiciness.
  • Customize the ranch seasoning with additional herbs or garlic powder as desired.
  • For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes or add Parmesan cheese on top before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken, ranch chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten free chicken, creamy ranch chicken