Simple Baked Ranch Chicken: Your New Weeknight Favorite (Print Version)
This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe is a weeknight lifesaver! Tender, flavorful chicken with minimal fuss, perfect for busy evenings. So easy!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free (check ranch mix)
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken Base
01 -
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3-4 pieces)
02 -
1-2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Ranch Flavor Boosters
03 -
1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
04 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
06 -
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ Essential Seasonings
07 -
0.5 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
08 -
0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, let's get that chicken ready! I usually pat my boneless, skinless chicken breasts really dry with paper towels. Honestly, this step is so important for getting a good crust, and it's one I used to rush through. Lay them out on a cutting board, and if they're super thick, I’ll sometimes butterfly them or pound them slightly to an even thickness, maybe about an inch. This ensures they cook evenly, which is key for tender chicken!
02 -
Now for the fun part! Drizzle a tablespoon or two of olive oil over the chicken breasts. Then, sprinkle that glorious dry ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper all over. I use my hands—yes, messy, I know—to rub it in really well, making sure every inch of the chicken is coated. I love the smell of the spices mixing; it’s so inviting. Make sure you get both sides for maximum flavor, hon!
03 -
While your chicken is getting all cozy with its seasonings, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish, something like a 9x13 inch, and lightly grease it. I usually just use a little cooking spray. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the dish. Don't overcrowd them! Giving them space helps them bake, not steam. I remember trying to cram too many in once, and they just didn't brown up nicely.
04 -
Pop that baking dish into your preheated oven. Now, let the magic happen! Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This is where a meat thermometer is your best friend; I learned that after overcooking chicken way too many times. You’ll see the chicken turn a beautiful golden-brown, and your kitchen will smell absolutely divine, I promise.
05 -
Once the chicken is cooked through, take it out of the oven. This next part is crucial, so don't skip it! Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken super moist and tender. Honestly, I used to cut into it right away, and all the juices would run out. Live and learn, right?
06 -
After a little rest, your Easy Baked Ranch Chicken is ready to be devoured! Slice it, dice it, or serve it whole. It’s so versatile and tastes incredible. The outside will have a lovely seasoned crust, and the inside will be juicy and flavorful. This dish always makes me feel like a kitchen wizard, even though it’s so simple. Enjoy every bite, you've earned it!
# Notes:
01 -
Don't skip patting the chicken dry; it makes a huge difference in texture.
02 -
Always use a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken—my biggest kitchen regret used to be overcooking!
03 -
Let the chicken rest after baking; it keeps it juicy, I promise.
04 -
For extra tender chicken, marinate it in a little buttermilk for 30 minutes before seasoning.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Baking dish (9x13 inch)
02 -
meat thermometer
03 -
cutting board
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Total Carbohydrate: 5g
Protein: 35g