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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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