Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe

 If you’re looking for a simple, tasty, and satisfying meal, look no further than baked ranch chicken. This dish is a go-to for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, offering tender, juicy chicken seasoned with rich, creamy ranch flavors. It's quick to prepare, requires only a few ingredients, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether served alongside vegetables, rice, or a salad, baked ranch chicken is versatile and easily customizable to fit your preferences.

Ingredients

To prepare baked ranch chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Method

1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then place them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Season the chicken breasts lightly with pepper.

3. Create the ranch mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise (if using), garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Coat the chicken
Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

5. Bake the chicken
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and golden.

6. Garnish and serve
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh pop of color. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

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Variations & Tips

Baked ranch chicken is an incredibly adaptable dish. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

1. Spicy Ranch Chicken
If you enjoy a little heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ranch mixture for a spicy kick.

2. Ranch Chicken Tenders
For a fun twist, use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts. These cook more quickly and are perfect for dipping in extra ranch dressing or BBQ sauce.

3. Bacon-Ranch Chicken
Add a few slices of crispy bacon on top of the chicken before baking for a savory bacon-ranch combo that’s sure to impress.

4. Ranch Chicken with Vegetables
For a complete one-pan meal, toss vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or potatoes in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and arrange them around the chicken in the baking dish. They’ll cook alongside the chicken, absorbing the ranch flavor as they bake.

5. Low-Carb Option
Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a higher-protein, lower-carb version of this dish. You can also skip the cheddar cheese to reduce the calorie content if desired.

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Conclusion

Baked ranch chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that requires minimal prep time and ingredients, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. With its creamy, cheesy ranch coating, this meal is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you're feeding a family or hosting friends, the endless customization options ensure it can be tailored to suit any taste.

This baked ranch chicken recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a delicious and reliable go-to meal. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to make it your own!