Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Bake
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Bake. Each juicy, boneless skinless chicken breast is generously coated in a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and zesty ranch seasoning. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with robust flavors that the whole family will love. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal that's sure to impress!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (plain or seasoned)
boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 (rinse and pat dry)
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
ranch dressing mix
1/2 packet (packed)
nonstick cooking spray
as needed (for greasing and spraying)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2
Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and ranch dressing mix. Mix until well blended.
4
Dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on both sides.
5
Place the coated chicken breasts in the greased baking dish, making sure there is space between each piece.
6
Lightly spray the tops of the chicken breasts with nonstick cooking spray to promote browning and crispiness.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is golden brown.
8
If the chicken has not developed a dark and crispy crust after 40 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the last 20 minutes of baking.
9
Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Ranch Parmesan Chicken Bake?
It is a juicy, boneless chicken breast dish generously coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning, then baked to a golden crisp.
What ingredients do I need for this chicken bake?
You will need 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 packet of ranch dressing mix, and nonstick cooking spray.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to start the baking process.
How long does the chicken take to bake?
The chicken typically bakes for 60 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and the coating is golden brown.
What should I do if the chicken isn't crispy after 40 minutes?
If the chicken has not developed a dark and crispy crust by the 40-minute mark, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the remaining 20 minutes.
Why should I pat the chicken dry?
Patting the chicken dry with a paper towel ensures that the breadcrumb mixture adheres better to the meat for an even coating.
Can I use seasoned breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use either plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your personal preference.
What kind of Parmesan cheese is best?
Grated Parmesan cheese is recommended as it mixes well with the breadcrumbs and ranch seasoning for a consistent crust.
How do I prepare the coating?
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and ranch dressing mix, then blend them until well combined.
Should I spray the chicken with oil?
Yes, lightly spraying the tops of the coated chicken with nonstick cooking spray helps promote browning and crispiness.
How should I arrange the chicken in the baking dish?
Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish, making sure to leave space between each piece for even airflow.
Is it necessary to let the chicken rest?
Yes, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
While the recipe calls for boneless skinless breasts, you can use thighs, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a side salad, or steamed rice.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, it is a crowd-pleasing dish with robust flavors that are generally loved by both kids and adults.
Can I use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch?
Absolutely, Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted for a lighter and even crunchier texture.
Do I need to flip the chicken during baking?
No, the recipe does not require flipping the chicken; the oven heat and nonstick spray will crisp the top automatically.
What size ranch packet should I use?
The recipe specifies using 1/2 of a standard ranch dressing mix packet.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is certified gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe make?
Since it uses 4 chicken breasts, it typically serves 4 people.
Should the chicken be rinsed before cooking?
The instructions mention rinsing under cold water and patting dry, though you should follow your preferred food safety practices regarding rinsing poultry.
Is the chicken bake spicy?
No, it is not spicy. It has a savory, zesty flavor from the ranch and Parmesan.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
Can I store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy coating.
What if I don't have nonstick cooking spray?
You can lightly brush the baking dish and the tops of the chicken with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter.
Is this a good meal prep recipe?
Yes, the crispy chicken can be sliced and used in salads, wraps, or bowls throughout the week.
Can I use fresh Parmesan instead of the jarred grated kind?
Yes, freshly grated Parmesan will melt beautifully and add great flavor to the crust.
What category of food does this fall under?
It is categorized as a main dish, specifically a baked chicken entree.
Does this recipe use oil?
The recipe uses nonstick cooking spray rather than liquid oil to keep the dish lighter while still achieving a crisp texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two separate dishes to avoid overcrowding.