Crispy Ranch-Parmesan Chicken Breasts
Whip up a family favorite with this Crispy Ranch-Parmesan Chicken! With a perfect blend of crunchy breadcrumbs, savory Parmesan, and zesty ranch dressing, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Simply coat chicken breasts in ranch dressing, dredge them in a delicious breadcrumb mixture, and bake for a juicy, tender result. Baked to golden perfection in under an hour, this recipe allows for optional cheese topping and can be easily adapted for other chicken cuts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this chicken is sure to satisfy. Experience the delightful combination of textures and flavors, all while keeping the preparation simple. Make sure to follow the tips to achieve that perfect crispy finish without any soggy bottoms!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless skinless chicken breasts
6 (None)
Dry breadcrumbs
1 cup (Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crispiness)
Parmesan cheese
1/4-1/3 cup (Grated)
Seasoning salt
1 teaspoon (None)
Ground black pepper
1/2-1 teaspoon (None)
Garlic powder
1/2-1 teaspoon (None)
Prepared ranch salad dressing
1 cup (Bottled)
Melted butter
1/4 cup (None)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust the oven rack to the lowest position.
2
In a shallow bowl, combine the dry breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, seasoned salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the seasonings.
3
Dip each chicken breast into the ranch dressing, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Allow any excess dressing to drip off before proceeding.
4
Carefully coat each ranch-dipped chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
5
Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer on a greased baking sheet or on non-stick foil to prevent sticking. It's important to avoid using a small baking dish to keep the bottom crispy.
6
If desired, lightly drizzle the melted butter over each chicken breast for added flavor or skip this step for a lower-fat version.
7
Additionally, you may sprinkle extra black pepper on top for an extra kick.
8
Bake the chicken uncovered for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. The breadcrumbs should be golden and crispy.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Ranch-Parmesan Chicken?
It is a family favorite dish featuring chicken breasts coated in ranch dressing and a savory breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, baked until golden and crispy.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
Where should the oven rack be positioned?
The oven rack should be adjusted to the lowest position.
What ingredients are in the breadcrumb mixture?
The mixture includes dry breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, seasoned salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
What type of breadcrumbs provide the most crispiness?
Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for achieving extra crispiness.
How do I prepare the chicken for coating?
Dip each chicken breast into the ranch dressing, coating both sides evenly and letting the excess drip off.
How do I apply the breadcrumb coating?
Press the ranch-dipped chicken lightly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure the coating adheres well.
What kind of baking surface should I use?
Use a greased baking sheet or non-stick foil to prevent sticking.
Why should I avoid using a small baking dish?
A small dish can lead to a soggy bottom; a large baking sheet helps keep the chicken crispy.
How should the chicken be arranged on the pan?
The chicken breasts should be placed in a single layer.
Is the melted butter mandatory?
No, the melted butter is optional for added flavor and can be skipped for a lower-fat version.
Can I add extra seasoning to the top?
Yes, you can sprinkle extra black pepper on top of the chicken before baking for an extra kick.
How long does the chicken bake?
Bake the chicken uncovered for approximately 30 to 35 minutes.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Should the chicken be covered while baking?
No, the chicken should be baked uncovered to ensure the breadcrumbs become golden and crispy.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, this recipe can be easily adapted for other chicken cuts.
What type of ranch dressing is used?
The recipe calls for bottled prepared ranch salad dressing.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed?
The recipe uses 1/4 to 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Is there an optional topping I can add?
The description mentions an optional cheese topping can be added.
What makes this recipe a good weeknight dinner?
It is quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and takes under an hour to bake.
How many chicken breasts does this recipe serve?
The recipe is designed for 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts.
What prevents the chicken from being soggy?
Using a large baking sheet and placing the rack at the lowest position helps achieve a crispy finish.
What are the primary flavors in this dish?
The dish features a blend of crunchy breadcrumbs, savory Parmesan, and zesty ranch dressing.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
What kind of salt is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt.
How much butter is used for the optional drizzle?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of melted butter.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?
Yes, it is described as perfect for a gathering with loved ones.
How much ranch dressing is needed?
You will need 1 cup of prepared ranch salad dressing.
How much breadcrumbs are required?
The recipe requires 1 cup of dry breadcrumbs.
What should the breadcrumbs look like when done?
The breadcrumbs should appear golden and crispy once fully baked.