Craving a comforting yet healthy dinner that's ready in under an hour? Look no further! This baked chicken ranch recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and requires minimal cleanup – a triple win in our book! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes that the whole family will love. It's a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, proving that healthy meals don't have to be complicated. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ranch dressing (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step makes a world of difference when it comes to easy recipes.
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Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the ranch dressing over the chicken, ensuring each breast is coated. This step is crucial for achieving tender, juicy chicken.
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Season & Top: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Then, top with the remaining ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. A final sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Overcooked chicken is dry chicken, so keep a close eye on it!
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Rest & Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Ranch:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure the chicken breasts have enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh parsley and green onions on hand, use them instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- Add vegetables: Enhance this dish by adding your favorite vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or asparagus during the last 15 minutes of baking. This turns a simple recipe into a complete healthy meal.
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the ranch dressing.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Ranch: Replace half of the ranch dressing with your favorite tomato sauce for a tangy twist.
- BBQ Ranch Chicken: Swap the ranch dressing for BBQ sauce for a smoky and sweet alternative.
- Lemon Herb Ranch: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with your favorite fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a zesty and aromatic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This baked chicken ranch recipe offers a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be, proving that healthy meals can also be quick and convenient. Enjoy!