Description
Creamy ranch chicken brings comfort straight from home kitchens to dinner tables with irresistible flavor. Crispy golden coating and tender meat promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 grams)
Cheese and Seasoning:
- ½ cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz / 28 grams) ranch seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the culinary workspace by warming the oven to a precise 375F (190C), ensuring an even heat distribution. Protect the baking vessel with a light coating of oil or a protective parchment layer.
- Transform raw chicken breasts into a flavor-ready canvas by thoroughly patting each piece with absorbent towels, eliminating excess moisture. Massage the surface with a thin veil of olive oil or melted butter, creating a receptive foundation for seasonings.
- Craft a flavor-packed seasoning blend by whisking together ranch powder, grated Parmesan, aromatic garlic powder, vibrant paprika, and complementary salt and pepper. Generously distribute this seasoning mixture across both surfaces of the chicken, gently pressing to encourage maximum flavor adherence.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a strategic single layer within the prepared baking dish, allowing each piece ample breathing room. Slide the dish into the preheated oven, monitoring the cooking process for approximately 25-30 minutes. When the internal temperature reaches a safe 165F (74C), the chicken is perfectly cooked. Should the exterior begin to darken too quickly, create a protective aluminum foil tent.
- After removing from the oven, allow the chicken to rest momentarily, enabling internal juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with delicate fresh parsley or chives, creating a visually appealing and flavorful dish ready to be enjoyed alongside complementary side dishes.
Notes
- Create a crisp, golden-brown exterior by patting chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning, which helps the spices adhere and promotes beautiful caramelization.
- Customize the ranch seasoning blend by mixing homemade dry herbs like dill, chives, and dried parsley for a fresher, more vibrant flavor profile.
- Keep chicken incredibly tender by using a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking, ensuring the chicken reaches exactly 165F without becoming tough or dry.
- Transform this recipe into a low-carb or keto-friendly option by replacing Parmesan cheese with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for added crunch and protein.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg