Garlic Ranch Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken infused with creamy ranch and aromatic garlic and basil, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or summer cookout.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ranch dressing, chopped garlic, and chopped basil in a heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag.
- Add chicken breasts to the bag, turning to coat each piece thoroughly.
- Squeeze out air, seal the bag, and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes, longer if desired.
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Grill chicken breasts for 6 to 8 minutes on each side until cooked through and juices run clear.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. If you don’t have Hidden Valley Ranch dressing, homemade ranch dressing can be made using buttermilk, mayonnaise, and herbs. For a healthier option, use skinless chicken breasts and marinate them for a longer time to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve garlic ranch chicken with a fresh garden salad or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Marie'S Chicken Noodle Casserole for a comforting dinner option. You can also slice the chicken and add it to wraps or sandwiches for a tasty lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Ranch Chicken contains roughly 654 calories, with 18g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (68% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 987mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of dressing instead of ranch?
Yes, you can substitute ranch dressing with any creamy dressing you prefer, such as blue cheese or Caesar. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so choose one that complements your taste.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this, or ensure the juices run clear when the chicken is pierced with a knife.
Can I grill the chicken indoors?
If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stove or a broiler in your oven. Both methods will give you a nice sear while cooking the chicken evenly.
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).