If you’re dreaming of a dinner that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this Ultimate Creamy Ranch Chicken is your answer. It’s a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, savory delight perfect for weeknight meals.
The rich ranch sauce envelops tender chicken, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving this to family or guests, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Let’s get cooking and bring a taste of comfort to your table!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a baking sheet with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the bread crumbs in one bowl and the ranch dressing in another separate bowl.
- Coat each chicken breast in ranch dressing, then press into the bread crumbs, ensuring an even layer. Shake off any excess crumbs and place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken in the oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the center is no longer pink and juices run clear. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) with an instant-read thermometer.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cups of dry bread crumbs
- 1 cup of ranch-style salad dressing (e.g., Hidden Valley® Original Ranch®)
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, lightly pounded to an even thickness
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2780 | Fat: 176g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Cholesterol: 324mg | Sodium: 4104mg | Carbohydrates: 168g | Dietary Fiber: 12g | Sugars: 24g | Protein: 128g | Vitamin C: 0mg | Calcium: 508mg | Iron: 16mg | Potassium: 1316mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of dressing instead of ranch?
- Yes, feel free to experiment with other dressings like Caesar or blue cheese. Keep in mind that the flavor will be different, but it can still be delicious!
- Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness?
- Pounding the chicken ensures that it cooks evenly and remains juicy. While it’s not mandatory, it is recommended for the best results.
- Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven for this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can use an air fryer. Cook at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and check the chicken for doneness around the 20-minute mark since cooking times may vary.
- What can I do if I don’t have an instant-read thermometer?
- If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. This is a good indication that it’s fully cooked.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can coat the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This can help save time when you’re ready to cook.
Tips
- For a crispier finish, try placing the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes after baking to achieve a golden brown crust.
- Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking and to avoid undercooked or dry portions.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- When coating the chicken, gently shake off any excess bread crumbs after pressing them on, to prevent clumping and ensure an even coating.
Equipment
- Instant-read thermometer – to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
- Baking sheet – if you don’t already have one suitable for baking chicken.
- Mixing bowls – for holding the bread crumbs and ranch dressing separately.
