There’s something truly comforting about a simple, flavorful baked chicken dish, especially one as delicious as Baked Ranch Chicken. This recipe takes tender, juicy chicken and coats it in a rich, creamy ranch-seasoned mixture before baking it to golden perfection. It’s a meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers a fantastic depth of flavor.

If you grew up loving ranch dressing on everything, from salads to sandwiches, this dish will bring back all those nostalgic flavors in the best way possible. The combination of ranch seasoning, creamy ingredients, and oven-baked goodness creates a dinner that feels indulgent while still being easy enough for a busy weeknight.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just want a no-fuss meal that everyone will love, this Baked Ranch Chicken is a winner. Plus, it pairs well with so many sides—roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad. Get ready to add this recipe to your list of go-to comfort meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – With minimal prep work and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy nights.
• Packed with Flavor – The ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby kick that makes the chicken irresistible.
• Creamy & Juicy – Baking the chicken with a creamy coating locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is tender.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the rich, comforting flavors.
• Versatile – Serve it with rice, pasta, veggies, or even slice it up for sandwiches!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

How to Make Baked Ranch Chicken

This recipe is as easy as mix, coat, and bake! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most delicious, creamy ranch chicken:

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Ranch Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps the mixture stick better. Using a spoon or a brush, spread the creamy ranch mixture evenly over each chicken breast, coating both sides.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs. Drizzle in the melted butter and toss everything together until the mixture is well coated. This will create a crispy, cheesy crust when baked.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Generously sprinkle the breadcrumb-cheese mixture over the top, pressing it slightly so it sticks to the ranch coating.

Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Once done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat extra tender. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Use Thin Chicken Breasts – If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half or pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
• Make It Extra Crispy – Broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to get an extra crispy, golden topping.
• Substitutions – Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a slightly tangier and lighter option.
• Check for Doneness – Always use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: High Protein

Notes

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• You can also freeze the baked chicken for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

What can I serve with baked ranch chicken?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or even buttered noodles.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the coated chicken a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and cook as directed.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative, or use crushed gluten-free crackers for a crunchy topping.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked ranch chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Baked Ranch Chicken, here are a few more recipes you might love:

• Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
• Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
• Spicy Ginger Chicken
• Harissa Chicken – A Spicy North African Delight

Conclusion

Baked Ranch Chicken is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Give this easy, flavorful recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out!

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