Easy Baked Ranch Chicken

Name: Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 oz ranch dressing mix (1 packet); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots) – Optional

By Jana Vergara

March 17, 2025

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Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day, the aroma of roasted chicken swirling around like a comforting hug. That’s exactly what you get with this Easy Baked Ranch Chicken. The tender chicken breasts basking in a savory ranch seasoning—ahh, bliss! Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that dances on your taste buds, making you wonder why you ever considered takeout.

This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about memories too. I remember the first time I made this for my family during a chaotic week filled with soccer practices and school projects. The kids gobbled it up faster than I could say “Easy Baked Ranch Chicken,” and their happiness lit up the room like fireworks on the Fourth of July.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
The ranch seasoning brings out delicious flavors that everyone will love
Its golden-brown crust is visually appealing and will impress your guests
You can even customize it with your favorite vegetables for added nutrition

I served this dish last month during a family gathering, and everyone was asking for my secret ingredient—it was just ranch dressing!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 pieces; adjust according to your crowd size.
Ranch Dressing Mix: Use a packet or homemade mix; it’s the flavor hero here.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Garlic Powder: Adds an aromatic touch; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy.
Paprika: Choose smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Vegetables (Optional): Toss in some broccoli or carrots for a complete meal!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is hot enough to give the chicken that beautiful golden crust.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grab a baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This keeps our chicken from sticking like an ex who just won’t leave.

Season Your Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken breast generously with olive oil before sprinkling the seasoning mixture over them.

Bake It Up: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish. Slide them into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen will smell divine!

Add Vegetables (Optional): If you’re including veggies, add them halfway through cooking so they cook perfectly without becoming mushy.

Serve Hot & Enjoy: Once done baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve it up with your favorite sides while basking in compliments from family and friends!

You Must Know

This easy baked ranch chicken is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights
Its tangy flavor pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dinner option
The aroma while it bakes will have everyone rushing to the table in anticipation

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Coat the chicken in ranch seasoning and bake until golden brown and cooked through—about 25-30 minutes for juicy perfection.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ranch seasoning for Italian or taco seasoning. Add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli during baking for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep that delicious crispy exterior.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve maximum flavor, let the seasoned chicken sit for at least 15 minutes before baking
Use fresh herbs for added brightness—it can elevate any dish!
Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F

Sometimes, when I serve this easy baked ranch chicken, I hear gasps of delight from my family, as if I’m a culinary wizard casting delicious spells at dinner time.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with easy baked ranch chicken?

Pair it with mashed potatoes or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it’s thawed thoroughly before seasoning and baking.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken.

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