This Baked Ranch Chicken is a flavorful, crispy, and healthy baked dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with classic ranch flavors, coated in a crunchy panko-Parmesan crust, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that pairs well with just about any side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful Crust: The combination of ranch seasoning, Parmesan, and spices delivers bold, herby flavor in every bite.
- Crispy Texture: Panko breadcrumbs create a light, crunchy coating without frying.
- Juicy & Tender: Even baking ensures moist, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz / 28g) dry ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon (5g) garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon (3g) paprika
- ¼ teaspoon (1g) black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon (1g) salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or heavy-bottomed pan, gently pound them to an even thickness of about ¾-inch to ensure even cooking.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps the coating stick better.
Step 2: Create Your Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the ranch seasoning , panko breadcrumbs , grated Parmesan , garlic powder , paprika , salt , and black pepper . Mix thoroughly until well combined.
The herbs in the ranch seasoning work beautifully with the sharpness of the Parmesan and the warmth of the other spices for a truly craveable flavor profile.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Pour the olive oil into a separate shallow bowl.
Dip each chicken breast first into the olive oil, ensuring it’s lightly coated on all sides. Then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, using your fingers to gently press the coating onto the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
Place the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish, making sure they don’t overlap.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25–30 minutes , or until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Pro Tips for Success:
- Even Thickness: Always pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Clean Hands Technique: Use one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry when breading to avoid clumping.
- Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting period—it keeps the chicken juicy.
- No Flipping Needed: Letting the chicken bake undisturbed ensures a beautiful, crisp crust.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with ranch dressing or lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. ½ chicken breast):
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~6g
- Fat: ~15g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
This Baked Ranch Chicken is a go-to recipe for anyone who loves big flavor without the hassle. With its crispy, herb-packed crust and juicy interior, it’s a satisfying dinner option that comes together quickly and easily.
Make it tonight and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal straight from your own kitchen!
