This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Dinner is a crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken coated in tasty ranch seasoning bakes to perfection along with colorful veggies. It’s a one-pan wonder!
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the oven and let it do its magic. Plus, you get to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. What’s not to love? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe. For a change, you can use thighs for added flavor and juiciness, or even cut chicken into smaller pieces to shorten cooking time!
Ranch Seasoning: The seasoning mix is key here! If you don’t have a packet, you can make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. This gives it a homemade touch.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: I prefer Greek yogurt for its tangy flavor and protein boost. If dairy is an issue, consider using non-dairy yogurt or even a mayo if that suits your taste.
Vegetables: The baby potatoes, carrots, and broccoli are traditional, but feel free to swap in your favorites. Zucchini, bell peppers, or snap peas work well too!
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender, it’s crucial not to overbake it. Pay attention to the cooking time and use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Here’s a quick tip:
- Brushing the ranch mix evenly on the chicken helps lock in moisture.
- Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking will help redistribute the juices, making every bite delicious!
By following these simple tricks, you’ll end up with perfectly juicy chicken every time!
Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Dinner Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- Other:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Dinner will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 35–40 minutes to cook. You’ll spend the first part mixing and arranging the ingredients, and then let the oven do the rest. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s always a good idea to get the oven ready before you start assembling your dish. Lightly grease a large baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make clean-up easier.
2. Mix the Ranch Coating:
In a small bowl, take the ranch seasoning mix and combine it with the sour cream or Greek yogurt. Mix it until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing will give your chicken lots of flavors!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Use a brush or spoon to coat each piece evenly with the ranch mixture. Make sure every bite will be tasty!
4. Add the Veggies:
In a separate bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes and baby carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then arrange them around the chicken in the baking dish. Spread everything out for even cooking!
5. Bake the Chicken Dinner:
Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. This will partially cook your chicken and veggies.
6. Add Broccoli:
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Add the broccoli florets around the chicken and vegetables. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes. Check to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest and Garnish:
When the chicken is fully cooked and the veggies are tender, take the dish out of the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a touch of color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now you’re ready to dig in! Serve the warm ranch chicken dinner right from the baking dish or transfer it to individual plates. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Baked Ranch Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time by adding about 10-15 minutes to ensure they cook through properly. The internal temperature should still reach 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can make your own blend with equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley. A sprinkle of salt and pepper will help bring the flavors together!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to cook, you may need to add an extra few minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or rewarm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy your meal again!
