Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This Ranch Chicken Thighs recipe is your new go-to for quick weeknight dinners or a satisfying weekend treat. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is easily customizable to your taste. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup ranch dressing (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for easy homemade cooking!
Prepare the Chicken:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the spice mixture. Ensure each thigh is well seasoned.
Add the Ranch & Bake:
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Pour the ranch dressing over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is generously coated. This is what creates that incredible ranch flavor!
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Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. If using vegetables, toss them with a little olive oil and salt and arrange them around the chicken.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer for perfect results every time.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and easy dinner!
Tips for the Best Ranch Chicken Thighs:
- Bone-in or boneless? This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs for ease and quick cooking time. However, you can use bone-in thighs, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Homemade ranch: For an even healthier and tastier option, consider making your own ranch dressing. Numerous easy recipes are available online.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the spice mixture for a kick.
- Add veggies: Don't limit yourself to broccoli and bell peppers! Experiment with other vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Sheet Pan Chicken and Potatoes: Add diced potatoes to the baking sheet alongside the chicken for a complete one-pan meal.
- Ranch Chicken and Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice for a more filling dish.
- Ranch Chicken Salad: Shred the cooked chicken and mix it with your favorite salad greens, vegetables, and the leftover ranch dressing for a quick and healthy lunch or light dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This delicious and easy Ranch Chicken Thighs recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. It's a quick dinner idea that is both healthy and flavorful, making it a true winner in any kitchen! Enjoy!