Crispy Ranch Chicken Recipe

Zesty Homemade Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe Everyone Loves

Crispy, golden chicken infused with ranch seasoning delivers a mouthwatering dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This simple ranch chicken recipe combines zesty herbs with tender meat for an irresistible main course.

Weeknight meals rarely come this delicious and easy to prepare.

The blend of ranch seasoning creates a flavorful coating that locks in moisture and adds incredible depth to each bite.

Chicken breasts transform into a crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.

Dive into this recipe and watch your family’s faces light up with the first delectable bite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Calories: 200 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredient List For Baked Ranch Chicken

For Protein Base:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean, versatile protein that absorbs flavors beautifully; choose fresh, plump cuts without discoloration for best results.
For Seasoning Blend:
  • Ranch Seasoning Mix, Parmesan Cheese: Adds tangy, savory depth with classic ranch flavor; look for high-quality, low-sodium mix.
  • Garlic Powder: Intensifies overall taste with subtle aromatic warmth; ensure freshness by checking expiration date.
  • Paprika: Brings mild smokiness and gorgeous golden color; opt for sweet or smoked varieties depending on preference.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that balance and elevate the entire dish.
For Moisture and Preparation:
  • Olive Oil, Melted Butter: Creates golden crust and helps seasonings adhere; use extra virgin olive oil for richest flavor.
  • Fresh Parsley, Chives: Optional bright garnish that adds fresh, herbal finish; choose vibrant green herbs without wilting.

Tools You’ll Use For Baked Ranch Chicken

  • Baking Dish: Ceramic or glass dish to hold chicken while baking.
  • Measuring Spoons: For accurate seasoning measurements.
  • Small Bowl: To mix ranch seasoning and cheese.
  • Paper Towels: To pat chicken dry before seasoning.
  • Cutting Board: Surface for preparing chicken.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing chicken after cooking.
  • Aluminum Foil: Optional cover to prevent over-browning.
  • Oven Mitts: Protect hands when handling hot dish.

Easy Instructions For Baked Ranch Chicken

  • Oven Warmup

Crank up the heat to a toasty 375°F. Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

  • Chicken Prep

Gently dry those chicken pieces with a paper towel. Massage a touch of olive oil over the surface to create a delicious golden exterior and keep the meat super juicy.

  • Flavor Explosion

Mix together a wild blend of ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of paprika. Dance this magical mixture all over your chicken, pressing softly so every inch gets covered in deliciousness.

  • Baking Adventure

Nestle the chicken into your prepared dish, making sure they’re not crowding each other. Slide into the oven and let the magic happen for about 25-30 minutes. Check that the inside hits 165°F – this ensures perfectly cooked chicken.

  • Final Touch

Give your chicken a quick rest – just five minutes will lock in all those incredible juices. Scatter some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve up and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips To Add Kick To Baked Ranch Chicken

  • Flavor Boost Tricks: Mix ranch seasoning with breadcrumbs for extra crunch and texture on chicken surface.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Chicken can be seasoned and stored in refrigerator up to 24 hours before baking, which intensifies flavor profile and saves cooking time.
  • Low-Carb Option: Replace Parmesan with almond flour for keto-friendly version that maintains crispy exterior and reduces carbohydrate content.
  • Protein Swap Strategy: Recipe works perfectly with turkey breasts, pork chops, or boneless chicken thighs – simply adjust cooking time based on meat thickness and type.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative to accommodate lactose-intolerant dietary needs while preserving rich, savory flavor.

How To Plate Baked Ranch Chicken Neatly

  • Protein-Packed Plate Partners: Serve alongside fluffy quinoa or wild rice for a balanced, nutrient-rich meal that complements the ranch chicken's bold flavors.
  • Veggie Vibrance: Roast colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and zucchini with a light drizzle of olive oil to create a delicious and nutritious side that enhances the dish's savory profile.
  • Creamy Companions: Whip up a quick ranch dressing or cool cucumber salad to add extra zesty freshness that highlights the chicken's herby seasoning and provides a delightful contrast in texture.
  • Fresh Finish: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top to brighten the dish and add a pop of color that makes the ranch chicken look as amazing as it tastes.

Storing Baked Ranch Chicken Made Simple

  • Smart Refrigeration Tactics: Store cooked chicken in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, maintaining optimal taste and texture.
  • Freezing Friendly Strategy: Wrap individual chicken portions in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Stays delicious for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating Magic Technique: Warm chicken in the oven at 350F for 10-15 minutes to prevent drying. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture and restore original juiciness.
  • Portion Control Wisdom: Slice chicken before storing to create grab-and-go meal prep options. Perfect for quick lunches, salad toppings, or protein-packed wraps during busy weekdays.
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Crispy Ranch Chicken Recipe

Crispy Ranch Chicken Recipe


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4.7 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Ranch-infused chicken breasts deliver a creamy, tangy sensation that elevates weeknight dinners. Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this dish a family favorite for busy households.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 grams)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 packet (1 oz / 28 grams) ranch seasoning mix
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Oven Preparation: Calibrate the oven to 375F (190C) and shield the baking dish with a light oil spray or parchment paper for seamless release and easy cleanup.
  2. Chicken Preparation: Thoroughly pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then delicately massage with olive oil or melted butter to create a perfect seasoning foundation. This technique ensures optimal flavor absorption and moisture retention.
  3. Seasoning Fusion: Blend ranch powder, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper into a harmonious spice mixture. Meticulously coat both sides of the chicken, pressing the seasoning gently to maximize flavor penetration and create a robust taste profile.
  4. Baking Process: Position chicken breasts in a single layer within the prepared dish, maintaining adequate spacing for even heat circulation. Transfer to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Monitor internal temperature, aiming for 165F (74C). If the exterior browns too rapidly, drape with aluminum foil to prevent excessive charring.
  5. Finishing Touch: Allow chicken to rest briefly after removing from the oven, facilitating juice redistribution for maximum succulence. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, transforming the dish into a visually stunning and flavorful culinary creation ready to serve.

Notes

  • Moisture Management: Pat chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to prevent steaming and ensure a crispy, golden exterior that locks in flavor.
  • Seasoning Technique: Press the ranch-Parmesan mixture firmly into chicken to create a flavorful crust that adheres well during cooking, maximizing taste and texture.
  • Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, avoiding overcooking that can lead to dry, tough chicken – 165F is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
  • Foil Protection: Keep aluminum foil handy to cover chicken if browning too quickly, preventing burning while allowing the inside to cook thoroughly without sacrificing moisture.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Liam O’Sullivan

Liam O’Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Isabella brings a global spark to the Craft Meats table. Born in Florence and trained at the Apicius International School of Hospitality, she blends classic Italian flavor with modern writing that’s easy to follow and hard to forget. 

Her additional training at the Italian Chef Academy fueled her love for well-crafted dishes, especially ones that spotlight beautiful cuts of meat.

She’s a food writer with heart, and a deep love for storytelling through single recipes. Her goal? To help you cook with more confidence and a little more joy, no matter where you start.

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