Craving a delicious and satisfying dinner that's also quick and easy to prepare? Look no further! This baked ranch chicken recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. Let's dive into this fantastic homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 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. This simple step ensures easy cleanup later.
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Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Even seasoning is key for a consistently flavorful dish.
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Ranch Coating: Pour the ranch dressing evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well coated. The creamy ranch adds a delicious depth of flavor.
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Cheese & Onions: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions over the chicken. The cheese melts beautifully in the oven, creating a delicious topping.
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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 perfect doneness every time.
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Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast. Serve it as is, or pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Best Baked Ranch Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Give the chicken breasts enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Use fresh herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, add some fresh herbs like parsley or chives before baking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli, to the baking dish along with the chicken.
Delicious Variations:
- Creamy Mushroom Ranch Chicken: Add a cup of sliced mushrooms to the baking dish along with the chicken and ranch dressing.
- Bacon Ranch Chicken: Crumble some cooked bacon over the chicken before baking for a salty and savory twist.
- Buffalo Ranch Chicken: Mix a tablespoon of buffalo wing sauce into the ranch dressing for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This baked ranch chicken recipe is a simple, yet delicious, option for a quick weeknight dinner. It's a great way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!