Description
This Baked Ranch Chicken recipe features juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of ranch seasoning, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a crispy, savory crust with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (approximately 1 ounce)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Coating: In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute all the flavors evenly.
- Coat the Chicken: Brush both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil. This helps the coating adhere and promotes browning. Dredge each piece of chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks evenly over the surface.
- Bake: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs gives the chicken a lighter, crispier crust.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- You can customize the seasoning by adding herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
- If preferred, substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
