Ranch Crusted Chicken Recipe

This Ranch Crusted Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy and flavorful ranch-seasoned crust. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and just a few steps. It’s a versatile and convenient option for any home cook, and it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Crispy: The combination of ranch seasoning and panko breadcrumbs creates a crispy and flavorful crust that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
• Versatile: Serve these Ranch Crusted Chicken breasts with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. They’re also great for meal prepping or slicing for sandwiches and wraps.
• Quick and Convenient: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Sour cream: Adds a creamy and tangy base for the coating.
• Ranch dip seasoning mix: Adds a classic ranch flavor to the crust.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that create a light and crispy crust.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Ranch Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Split each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. If the chicken breasts are very thick, you can butterfly them by slicing them in half almost all the way through, then opening them like a book. Place the chicken cutlets between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps them cook evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Make the Ranch Coating

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and ranch dip seasoning mix until well blended.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Place the panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Dip each chicken cutlet in the sour cream mixture, turning to coat evenly. Then, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere.

Step 4: Bake and Broil

Arrange the coated chicken cutlets in a single layer on a shallow rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. To achieve a golden brown and crispy crust, broil the chicken on a lower rack for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the Ranch Crusted Chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality chicken breasts.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Arrange the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Adjust the cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts and your oven.
• Make ahead: You can coat the chicken cutlets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

These Ranch Crusted Chicken breasts are delicious with a variety of sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for this dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Ranch Crusted Chicken breasts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re a great option for this recipe. If using chicken thighs, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use a different type of breadcrumb? Yes, you can! Regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed Ritz crackers would work well in this recipe.

3. Can I make this recipe without the ranch seasoning? Yes, you can! Simply season the chicken with your favorite spices before coating it in the breadcrumbs.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the coating? Absolutely! Feel free to add grated Parmesan cheese, dried herbs, or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

This Ranch Crusted Chicken Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and versatile way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. With its easy preparation, crispy coating, and endless serving options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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