Baked Ranch Chicken

When it comes to Baked Ranch Chicken, you’ll find it’s an enticing option for both its simplicity and flavor.

This recipe combines the creamy richness of sour cream with the tangy zest of ranch seasoning, delivering a moist and tender chicken that satisfies the palate.

Quick to prepare and versatile in pairing with sides, it suits busy evenings perfectly.

Curious about how this delightful dish comes together effortlessly?

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 Baking dish
• 1 Mixing bowl
• 1 Whisk
• 1 Knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Oven

Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Baked Ranch Chicken, you can follow this timeline:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Start Time: 0 minutes
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prep Work (10 minutes):
   • Start Time: 0 minutes
   • Set out all ingredients and equipment.
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board, season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
   • Coat each chicken breast evenly with the sour cream mixture.
3. Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish:
   • Start Time: 10 minutes
   • Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer.
4. Bake Chicken (25 minutes):
   • Start Time: 10 minutes
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
   • Set a timer for 25 minutes.
5. Resting Time (5 minutes):
   • Start Time: 35 minutes
   • Remove the chicken from the oven.
   • Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish & Serve:
   • Start Time: 40 minutes
   • Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Total Time: 40 minutes

Recipe

Baked Ranch Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the creamy tang of sour cream with the savory taste of ranch seasoning.

This American cuisine favorite is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

The combination of Parmesan cheese and garlic powder adds depth to the flavor, while the olive oil guarantees the chicken remains moist and tender.

With a prep time of only 10 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, this dish promises a delicious meal in no time.

The recipe yields four servings, making it an ideal choice for a family meal.

The chicken breasts are coated in a rich, creamy mixture before being baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting.

For an added touch, garnish with fresh parsley to enhance the presentation.

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

To prepare Baked Ranch Chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Season the chicken breasts lightly with additional salt and pepper, then coat each one evenly with the sour cream mixture.

Arrange them in a single layer in a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, and if desired, garnish with chopped parsley.

For best results, verify the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness, which helps them cook evenly.

You can also marinate the chicken in the sour cream mixture for a few hours in the refrigerator to intensify the flavors.

Be mindful of the salt content, as the ranch seasoning mix already contains salt.

Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences, and enjoy this delightful dish!

Cooking Steps

To start preparing the Baked Ranch Chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F to guarantee it’s ready when you need it.

Next, whisk together the sour cream mixture in a bowl, making certain it’s well blended for even flavor distribution.

After seasoning the chicken on a cutting board, coat it thoroughly with the mixture before arranging the pieces in a single layer in your baking dish.

Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F

Before diving into the preparation of your Baked Ranch Chicken, it’s important to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

This step is vital for guaranteeing the chicken cooks evenly and reaches the ideal texture.

When you set your oven to the right temperature in advance, you create a stable cooking environment that allows the chicken to bake through without drying out.

Think of preheating as setting the stage for a successful cooking performance.

By the time your chicken goes in, the oven will be ready to deliver consistent heat.

Use this preheating period to gather your ingredients and prepare your baking dish.

This way, you maximize efficiency and make sure that your chicken starts cooking at the perfect temperature for best results.

Step 2. Whisk Sour Cream Mixture

Grab your whisk and get ready to mix up some flavor magic!

In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of creamy sour cream with a packet of zesty ranch seasoning.

Add in a half cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty depth.

Drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil to help bind the ingredients together smoothly.

Now, sprinkle in a teaspoon of garlic powder, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and a quarter teaspoon of salt for an aromatic kick.

Whisk until the mixture is velvety and well-blended.

This blend will transform your chicken with its rich, tangy allure.

Verify all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a balanced coating that adheres perfectly to the chicken, promising juicy, flavorful results.

Step 3. Season Chicken on Cutting Board

Now that your sour cream mixture is ready, it’s time to focus on the chicken.

Lay your boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a clean cutting board.

Grab a pinch of salt and pepper, and lightly sprinkle both sides of each piece.

This step is essential for enhancing the chicken’s inherent flavors before adding the rich, tangy ranch mixture.

Be mindful of the amount, as the ranch seasoning already contains salt.

Use your fingertips to gently press the seasoning into the meat, ensuring even distribution.

This tactile action helps the spices adhere more effectively, setting the stage for a well-seasoned bite.

Step 4. Coat Chicken With Mixture

Begin by taking each seasoned chicken breast and immersing it in the rich, tangy sour cream mixture.

Make certain you coat each piece thoroughly, letting the creamy blend cling to every surface.

This mixture, infused with ranch seasoning and Parmesan, not only promises flavor but also locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy as it bakes.

As you work, notice how the garlic powder adds a subtle depth, while the olive oil contributes a smooth texture to the coating.

Don’t rush this step; even coverage guarantees consistent flavor in every bite.

Pay attention to the mixture’s thickness; it should adhere without dripping excessively.

This step is essential as it forms a flavorful barrier, setting the stage for a perfectly baked dish.

Step 5. Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish

Once the chicken breasts are fully coated, it’s time to transfer them into the baking dish.

Confirm the dish is large enough to accommodate each piece without overlapping.

This allows the chicken to cook evenly, guaranteeing a moist and tender texture throughout.

Here’s how to proceed:

1. Arrange Carefully: Lay the chicken breasts side by side in a single layer. Avoid stacking them to promote even heat distribution.
2. Spacing Matters: Leave a small space between each piece. This encourages better air circulation, helping the chicken cook uniformly.
3. Final Check: Double-check that the sour cream mixture covers each breast adequately. This will lock in moisture and enhance the flavor.

With everything set, your chicken is ready for the oven’s magic.

Serving Tips

• Steamed Vegetables: A healthy and colorful side that complements the creamy ranch flavor of the chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting and hearty pairing with the baked chicken.
• Rice Pilaf: Light and flavorful, rice pilaf adds a nice texture balance to the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and adding a touch of crunch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh and crisp salad provides a revitalizing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Reheating

Reheating:

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.

Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for a simple yet flavorful dinner option, Baked Ranch Chicken might just be your new go-to recipe.

It combines the tangy zest of ranch seasoning with the creamy richness of sour cream and Parmesan, delivering a satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and delicious.

The prep is quick, and the baking time allows you to focus on side dishes or simply relax.

With minimal effort, you create a main course that feels like a special treat.

Analyzing this dish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Its versatility lets you adjust the seasoning or add a marinade for extra flavor depth.

Keep this recipe in your culinary arsenal for when you need a dependable, crowd-pleasing meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?

You can swap Greek yogurt for sour cream. It’ll make the dish tangier and lower in fat. Verify it’s full-fat yogurt for a creamier texture. Adjust seasoning to balance the tanginess, creating a delicious twist.

Is There a Low-Sodium Version of Ranch Seasoning Available?

You can find low-sodium versions of ranch seasoning at most grocery stores or online. They maintain flavor while reducing salt content. Check labels for sodium levels and consider making your homemade blend to control ingredients.

How Do I Ensure the Chicken Remains Moist?

To keep your chicken moist, make certain you don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F. Marinate the chicken in the sour cream mixture to add moisture before baking.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

You can definitely use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through completely.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Baked Ranch Chicken?

You should pair it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the rich flavors perfectly, offering balance and texture. They’re easy to prepare, ensuring a cohesive and delicious meal.

Cynthia Weatherford

Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.