Breaded Ranch Chicken
Breaded Ranch Chicken offers a crispy, flavorful coating with a savory blend of Parmesan cheese and ranch dressing mix. Perfect for a comforting dinner, it pairs well with vegetables or potatoes and appeals to those craving a hearty, cheesy, and seasoned chicken dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, combine crushed cornflakes, grated Parmesan cheese, and ranch salad dressing mix.
- Dip each chicken breast in melted butter, then roll in the cornflake mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes or until the chicken juices run clear.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Ensure the chicken is patted dry before dipping in butter to help the coating stick better. If you want a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper to the cornflake mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the breaded ranch chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Zesty Baked Chicken or Cheesy Rice Bake. For a heartier option, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a creamy pasta dish to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover breaded ranch chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breaded Ranch Chicken contains roughly 564 calories, with 6g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1069mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken, but the cooking time may vary slightly. The skin will add extra flavor and moisture, but ensure it is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I serve with breaded ranch chicken?
This chicken dish pairs well with various sides such as steamed broccoli, a Caesar salad, or even some garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a baked potato or creamy coleslaw.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can coat the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).