This Baked Ranch Chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dinner made with just six ingredients. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a creamy ranch mixture, covered with a seasoned breadcrumb crust, and baked until golden brown and perfectly tender. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With only 10 minutes of prep time, the oven does most of the work for you.
The combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt keeps the chicken moist and tender, while the breadcrumb and Parmesan coating creates a crispy, golden crust. The ranch seasoning adds a bold, savory flavor that both kids and adults enjoy.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can pair it with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and dry Ranch seasoning mix. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
In a separate medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt until smooth and fully combined.
Take each chicken breast and coat it thoroughly in the mayonnaise mixture, making sure both sides are evenly covered.
Next, dredge the coated chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere well to all sides.
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The crust should be golden brown and crisp.
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Calories per serving: approximately 277 kcal
Variations
For extra crunch, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs for regular breadcrumbs.
If you prefer darker meat, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. Adjust cooking time as needed, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
To add a touch of heat, mix in ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture.
For a cheesier crust, increase the Parmesan cheese to ¾ cup.
You can also add dried herbs such as parsley or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
To reheat in the microwave, slice the chicken first to ensure it warms evenly. Keep in mind that the crust may lose some of its crispiness.
For better texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. An air fryer can also help restore some of the crisp coating—heat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, watching carefully to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare and coat the chicken a few hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Can I freeze Baked Ranch Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple side salad.
Can I skip the Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can replace the Greek yogurt with an additional ¼ cup of mayonnaise for a richer flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Yes, homemade ranch seasoning can be substituted for the store-bought packet in equal measure.
Why is my crust not crispy?
Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
Can I use reduced-fat mayonnaise?
Yes, reduced-fat mayonnaise works well and still keeps the chicken moist.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Baked Ranch Chicken is a flavorful, family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and delivers satisfying results every time. With its crispy Parmesan crust and juicy, tender interior, it’s a dependable recipe you can turn to again and again. Whether served for a casual weeknight dinner or shared with guests, this dish is sure to impress while keeping your cooking simple and stress-free.
A simple and flavorful baked chicken dish featuring juicy breasts coated in a creamy ranch mixture and finished with a golden Parmesan breadcrumb crust. This easy weeknight recipe delivers big flavor with minimal prep.
