Simple Baked Ranch Chicken

This Simple Baked Ranch Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy nights when I want something tasty and low-effort. With just a few ingredients, the ranch seasoning gives the chicken a savory, zesty kick, and the oven does all the work. It’s juicy, tender, and has the perfect amount of flavor to make it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple and requires minimal prep time. The ranch seasoning mix adds a delicious burst of flavor without needing a ton of extra ingredients. It’s also versatile—perfect for pairing with a variety of sides, from roasted veggies to mashed potatoes. Plus, it’s baked, so it’s healthier than frying, and cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)

• Olive oil or melted butter

• Garlic powder

• Salt and pepper

• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing a baking dish.

2. In a small bowl, I mix the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. I brush the chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter and then coat them with the ranch seasoning mixture, making sure the chicken is evenly covered.

4. I place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. Once the chicken is done, I let it rest for a few minutes before serving. I like to garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley for a bit of color.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. The prep time is only about 5–10 minutes, and the chicken bakes in 20–25 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal to put together.

Variations

For extra flavor, I sometimes sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken in the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy ranch chicken. You can also add a drizzle of ranch dressing after it’s cooked for an even more indulgent flavor. If I want to add a little spice, I mix in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the ranch seasoning.

storage/reheating

I store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe. They stay moist and tender, and I usually bake them for about 30–35 minutes since they’re thicker than breasts.

Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?

Absolutely! If I want to skip the store-bought seasoning, I mix together dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt to create my own ranch seasoning.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I can prep the chicken in advance by seasoning it and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save time on busy nights.

Can I cook this on the grill instead?

Yes, I can grill the seasoned chicken breasts on medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. It adds a nice smoky flavor!

What should I serve this with?

I love pairing this baked ranch chicken with simple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. It’s versatile and works with just about anything!

Conclusion

This Simple Baked Ranch Chicken is a go-to recipe when I need a quick and flavorful meal with minimal effort. The ranch seasoning gives the chicken a burst of savory flavor, and the oven does all the hard work. It’s easy, tasty, and perfect for busy nights or meal prepping for the week ahead.