Print

Easy Baked Ranch Chicken for Juicy Weeknight Dinners

Cross-section of a juicy baked ranch chicken breast showing the white meat and golden, crispy breadcrumb topping.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this simple baked ranch chicken for a flavorful, tender weeknight dinner. This recipe uses minimal ingredients and straightforward oven baking for maximum taste and easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
  • 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for simple cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the dry ranch seasoning mix and the mayonnaise or sour cream until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. This creates the base for your flavorful coating.
  3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil over all sides of the chicken pieces.
  4. Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the top surface of each chicken breast. Press the coating down gently so it adheres well.
  5. If using, mix the Parmesan cheese and Panko breadcrumbs together. Sprinkle this mixture over the ranch coating on each piece of chicken.
  6. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
  7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) and the chicken is cooked through and juicy. Baking time depends on the thickness of your chicken.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve this easy oven chicken dinner with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For extra juicy baked ranch chicken, use chicken thighs instead of breasts; adjust baking time as needed, usually 25-30 minutes.
  • If you skip the optional topping, the chicken will still be moist due to the creamy ranch coating.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition