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To make this quick weeknight ranch chicken, you need the following items: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish These ingredients come together to create a dish that is both easy and delicious. You can add your own twist to the ranch chicken by trying these optional ingredients: - Lemon zest for a fresh touch - Cheese like Parmesan or cheddar for extra flavor - Hot sauce for a spicy kick - Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for more aroma Feel free to mix and match to find what you love best! To prepare this dish, gather the following tools: - Medium mixing bowl for the marinade - Baking sheet lined with parchment paper - Whisk for mixing the buttermilk and seasoning - Shallow dish for the breadcrumb mixture - Tongs for handling the chicken These tools will help you make the process smooth and fun. For the full recipe, check out the entire guide! To start, gather your ingredients. You need buttermilk and ranch seasoning mix. In a medium bowl, pour one cup of buttermilk. Next, add the ranch seasoning packet. Whisk them together until you see no lumps. This mix is key. It adds flavor and moisture to the chicken. Now, it’s time for the chicken. Take your four boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them in the marinade. Make sure each piece gets fully covered. This step is crucial for flavor. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, marinate it for up to two hours in the fridge. This will give you a stronger taste. While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mix. Press gently so the crumbs stick well. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check if the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. For the full recipe, check the beginning of this article. To make your chicken extra crispy, use panko breadcrumbs. They are light and airy. This helps create a crunchy crust. You can also mix in some grated Parmesan cheese. This adds flavor and texture. Another trick is to drizzle olive oil on top of the chicken before baking. This helps the coating brown and crisp up nicely. If you don’t have buttermilk, use regular milk with a splash of vinegar. Let it sit for five minutes to mimic buttermilk. For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix. You can also swap ranch seasoning for Italian seasoning. This gives the chicken a whole new flavor. Want to add more veggies? Toss some sliced bell peppers or zucchini on the baking sheet. They roast well and add color. Prep your chicken in advance. Marinate it the night before. Just pop it in the fridge, and dinner is ready when you are! You can also make extra chicken to use in salads or wraps later. If you're short on time, skip the marinating step. Just coat the chicken and bake it. The ranch flavor will still shine through. Don’t forget to line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze. For the full recipe, check above. {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this recipe. Instead of chicken, try pork chops. They cook well and soak up flavor. You can also use turkey cutlets for a leaner option. Fish, like salmon, works too. Keep in mind that fish cooks faster, so adjust the time. The ranch seasoning mix is great, but you can be creative. Add some Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick. Try Italian seasoning for a fresh twist. You can even mix in some lemon zest for brightness. Don't be afraid to experiment with herbs and spices you love. Pair this ranch chicken with simple sides. A crisp salad with lemon dressing adds freshness. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes for comfort. Roasted veggies, like carrots and broccoli, bring color and nutrition. For a fun twist, try serving it with corn on the cob. These sides balance the meal and make it more enjoyable. For the full recipe, check out the details above. After you've made the Quick Weeknight Ranch Chicken, let it cool down. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty. You can store it for up to three days. When you want to eat it, check for any signs of spoilage before reheating. If you want to save some chicken for later, freezing works great. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to label the bag with the date. This chicken can stay good in the freezer for about three months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat your ranch chicken, use the oven for the best texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the chicken moist. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just be careful not to overheat it. Enjoy your leftover ranch chicken with the same great flavors as before! You should marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. If you have more time, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours. A longer marination makes the chicken even tastier. Just remember to keep it in the fridge if you marinate for more than 15 minutes. Yes, you can use homemade ranch seasoning. Just mix together dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. This gives you full control over the flavor. Homemade seasoning can be fresher and more fun to make. Adjust the herbs to fit your taste. You can serve ranch chicken with many sides. Here are some great options: - Roasted veggies like carrots and broccoli - Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes - A fresh garden salad - Rice or quinoa for a filling meal - Corn on the cob for a sweet touch These sides will balance the flavors of the ranch chicken. They also add color and nutrition to your plate. For the full recipe, check out the Quick Weeknight Ranch Chicken. This blog post covered all you need for a tasty ranch chicken recipe. We discussed key ingredients, how to prepare and marinate the chicken, and tips for crispiness. You learned about fun variations and what sides to serve with it. Plus, I shared smart storage tips to keep your dish fresh. In summary, ranch chicken is easy to customize and delicious. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

- Quick Weeknight Ranch Chicken Recipe

Discover the ultimate recipe for Quick Weeknight Ranch Chicken that will become a favorite in your home! This deliciously crispy chicken dish combines tender chicken breasts with savory ranch flavors for a meal that's both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe is quick to prep and bake, ensuring dinner is on the table in no time. Click through to explore this simple, mouthwatering recipe and impress your family tonight!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk to combine well.

    Place the chicken breasts in the buttermilk mixture and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for a stronger flavor).

      Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

        In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

          Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, shaking off excess liquid. Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.

            Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

              Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

                Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

                  Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 40 min | Serves 4