Crispy Ranch Chicken Delight
This Crispy Ranch Chicken Delight is a family favorite that combines the rich flavors of Ranch dressing and the comfort of crispy baked chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights, the citrusy notes of the Ranch dressing meld beautifully with the golden, crunchy potato-flake coating, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness. It's a dish that not only satisfies hungry bellies but also makes you feel like a culinary rockstar at home. Simple enough for the kids to help with and impressive enough to thrill your dinner guests. Serve it up with a side of veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal. NOTE: The preparation time does not include marinating time, so plan accordingly for maximum flavor!
N/A
Servings
450
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 (cleaned and dried)
skinless chicken drumsticks
6 (cleaned and dried)
Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® Dressing
1.5 cups (prepared)
instant potato flakes
2 cups (none)
paprika
1/2 teaspoon (none)
parsley flakes
1/2 teaspoon (none)
garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by cleaning and drying the chicken breasts and drumsticks. Place them in a large flat glass dish.
2
Generously drizzle the Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® Dressing over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
3
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for 30 to 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
5
Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking sheet by coating it with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
6
In a flat dish, mix together the instant potato flakes, paprika, parsley flakes, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
7
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the Ranch dressing and roll each piece in the potato flake mixture, making sure to coat thoroughly.
8
Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
9
IMPORTANT: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) before placing the baking sheet in the oven.
10
Bake for approximately 35 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (juices run clear when pierced) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
11
Let rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the moisture.
Nutrition Information
25
Fat
37
Carbs
32.5
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Ranch Chicken Delight?
It is a family-friendly baked chicken dish that uses Ranch dressing as a marinade and instant potato flakes to create a golden, crunchy crust.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include boneless skinless chicken breasts, skinless chicken drumsticks, Hidden Valley Original Ranch Dressing, and instant potato flakes.
How long should the chicken marinate in the Ranch dressing?
The chicken should marinate in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld properly.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
You should initially preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
Does the baking temperature change during the process?
Yes, you must reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) before placing the chicken inside to bake.
How long does the chicken need to bake?
The chicken typically takes 35 to 45 minutes to bake until the juices run clear and the coating is crispy.
What is used to create the crispy coating?
The coating is made from a mixture of instant potato flakes, paprika, parsley flakes, and garlic powder.
How many calories are in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
How much protein is in a serving of Crispy Ranch Chicken Delight?
There are 32.5 grams of protein per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 25 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe per serving?
There are 37 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
What size baking sheet is recommended?
A 9 x 13-inch baking sheet is recommended for this recipe.
Should the chicken be dried before marinating?
Yes, it is important to clean and dry the chicken breasts and drumsticks before placing them in the marinade.
Is it necessary to grease the baking sheet?
Yes, you should coat the baking sheet with cooking spray or oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Can I use both chicken breasts and drumsticks?
Yes, this recipe specifically calls for 4 chicken breasts and 6 drumsticks.
Does the preparation time include the marinating time?
No, the preparation time does not include the 30 to 45 minutes required for marinating.
What kind of Ranch dressing should I use?
The recipe suggests using Hidden Valley Original Ranch Dressing.
What seasonings are added to the potato flake mixture?
Paprika, parsley flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper are mixed with the potato flakes.
How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking helps lock in the moisture.
Is this dish considered a quick recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick recipe and an easy dinner option for busy weeknights.
Can children help with this recipe?
Yes, the instructions mention it is simple enough for kids to help with.
What are some recommended side dishes?
It is recommended to serve this chicken with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.
How many different ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 9 ingredients used in this recipe.
What is the primary flavor profile of this chicken?
The dish features rich flavors of Ranch dressing with citrusy notes and a savory, crunchy potato coating.
Should the chicken be skinless?
Yes, the recipe specifically requires skinless chicken drumsticks and boneless skinless chicken breasts.
How should I arrange the chicken on the baking sheet?
After coating the chicken in the potato flake mixture, arrange the pieces on the prepared baking sheet and season with extra salt and pepper if desired.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food and a family meal.
What does the Ranch dressing do for the chicken?
It acts as a flavorful marinade that ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness and helps the coating adhere.
Is paprika essential to the recipe?
Yes, paprika is included in the potato flake mixture to add flavor and color to the coating.
How do you know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is cooked through when the juices run clear when the meat is pierced.