Scrumptious Ranch-Parmesan Chicken

This Scrumptious Ranch-Parmesan Chicken recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a crunchy, flavorful coating, creating a delightful dish that’s both easy and satisfying. The combination of ranch dressing and Parmesan cheese ensures a deliciously crispy crust, making this a perfect meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 6 boneless chicken breasts
• 1 cup dry bread crumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp seasoning salt
• 1/2 to 1 tsp black pepper, ground
• 1/2 to 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup prepared ranch salad dressing (adjust amount as needed)
• 1/4 cup melted butter (optional, for added richness)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the ranch dressing, ensuring both sides are coated. Allow excess dressing to drip off.
4. Bread the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
5. Arrange and Bake: Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle melted butter evenly over each breast for added flavor and moisture. Optionally, sprinkle additional black pepper.
6. Bake: Bake uncovered for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for extra heat.
• Herb Flavor: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Asiago or Cheddar for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, reheat in an oven to maintain crispiness.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, you can freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
   Regular breadcrumbs can be used instead, though they may not be as crunchy.
4. Can I use a different salad dressing?
   Yes, you can substitute with other creamy dressings such as blue cheese or ranch variations.
5. Is the melted butter necessary?
   The melted butter adds extra richness and helps with browning, but you can omit it if you prefer a lighter dish.
6. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the ranch dressing is gluten-free.
7. Can I make this ahead of time?
   You can prepare and bread the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
8. What side dishes go well with this chicken?
   This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
9. Can I use homemade ranch dressing?
   Yes, homemade ranch dressing works just as well in this recipe.
10. What’s the best way to check if the chicken is done?
    Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Scrumptious Ranch-Parmesan Chicken is a quick and easy recipe that delivers big on flavor. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and tangy ranch dressing makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual meal, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy this delicious, baked chicken with your favorite side dishes for a satisfying meal.

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