Baked Ranch Chicken

This baked ranch chicken recipe includes everything you need for a delicious comfort feast! They range from fan-favorite seasoning mixes to creamy toppings, fresh herbs, crispy coatings, and more. No matter what sides you’re making, you’ll find baked ranch chicken to love.

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I don’t know about you, but the chicken is always my favorite part of a ranch dinner. It doesn’t matter whether my family is having rice or mashed potatoes, I’ll be more excited about the juicy, tangy, and golden chicken breasts on the table. I hope this baked ranch chicken is the highlight of your weeknight dinner, too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Weeknight dinners need recipes that work without stress, and this one does exactly that. Baked Ranch Chicken uses everyday ingredients and delivers big flavor with almost no effort.

Creamy and crispy balance: Mayo keeps the chicken moist while breadcrumbs add crunch.

Bold ranch flavor: One packet seasons everything evenly.

Oven baked ease: No frying, no mess, no standing at the stove.

Family friendly: Mild, savory flavors that everyone enjoys.

Reliable results: The chicken stays juicy and never dries out.

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Ingredients

For Baked Ranch Chicken:

• 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts
• 1 ounce ranch dressing mix
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup parmesan cheese grated
• Cooking spray or a light brush of oil

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Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F and let it fully heat. A hot oven helps the coating crisp up instead of turning soft. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment to keep cleanup easy.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and pat them dry with paper towels. Dry chicken helps the coating stick better and bake evenly. If the pieces feel thick, gently pound them to an even size.

3. Mix the Creamy Base

In a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and ranch dressing mix. Mix until smooth and fully blended. The mixture should look thick and creamy with no dry seasoning spots.

4. Build the Coating

In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Stir until evenly mixed. This blend creates the crispy layer that turns golden in the oven.

5. Coat the Chicken

Spread the ranch mayo mixture over each chicken breast, covering all sides. Press the coated chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure the surface gets fully covered. Gently press so the crumbs stick well.

6. Arrange in the Baking Dish

Place the coated chicken into the prepared baking dish with a little space between each piece. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush with oil to help browning.

7. Bake Until Golden

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The coating should turn golden and the chicken should cook through. Check that the center reaches 165°F before removing.

8. Rest Before Serving

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices settle and keeps every bite tender.

Tips & Variations

• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular.
• Try sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of mayo.
• Add black pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mix.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers for easy lunches.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Ranch Chicken pairs well with simple sides that let the flavor shine. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. The creamy coating balances nicely with fresh or lightly seasoned sides.

When I make this for family dinners, I like adding buttered corn or rice on the side. The chicken feels hearty enough to anchor the plate while still leaving room for comfort sides everyone loves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs work well. Adjust cooking time slightly.

Does the coating stay crispy?

It stays lightly crisp on top and creamy underneath.

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes, coat the chicken and refrigerate up to one day before baking.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in the fridge for up to four days.

Can I freeze it?

Freeze after baking and cooling fully. Reheat in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ranch Chicken keeps dinner simple without feeling boring. The creamy ranch coating, crispy topping, and juicy chicken come together in a way that feels comforting and familiar. It works on busy nights and still feels satisfying.