Description
Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make baked chicken recipe featuring tender chicken coated in a crunchy ranch-seasoned panko breadcrumb crust, then brushed with melted butter for a rich finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish offers a delicious balance of crispy texture and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Butter & Garnish
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top to allow even air circulation under the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders or boneless breast pieces dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Breading Stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and ranch seasoning mix, mixing well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the panko-ranch mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crust.
- Arrange and Butter: Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Drizzle or brush the melted butter generously over each piece to help create a crispy, golden crust during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using a wire rack on the baking sheet promotes even cooking and crispiness by allowing air circulation around the chicken pieces.
- If you prefer extra crispy chicken, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- For a lighter option, use light butter or substitute with olive oil to drizzle before baking.
