Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
– In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Season the Chicken:
– Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
– Pour the seasoning mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
4. Bake the Chicken:
– Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve:
– Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
– Serve the chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.#### Tips for Success
– Marinating Time:
For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
– Even Cooking:
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
– Healthier Option:
Use low-sodium ranch seasoning mix to reduce sodium intake.
Variations
– Spicy Ranch Chicken:
Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
– Cheesy Ranch Chicken:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
– Herb Ranch Chicken:
Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the seasoning mix for an herby flavor.
Storage and Reheating
– Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Reheating:
Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 2g
– Fat: 12g
– Sodium: 800mg
This easy and delicious Baked Ranch Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The combination of ranch seasoning and simple spices creates a flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.