How to Make “The Best Chicken Ever” Hands Down, No Lie
Today’s post is an old favorite that I’ve brought over from my previous blog because it’s a recipe I find myself returning to time and again. And trust me, you’ll likely find yourself needing the recipe for The Best Chicken Ever too. (Side note: I just realized I forgot to pick up soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and cooking sherry during my grocery run today.)
This recipe, which I slightly modified, originally came to me via an email from my friend Mel, who credits the inspiration to Rachael Ray. Here, I present to you my version of The Best Chicken Ever.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken is incredibly flavorful and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a casual get-together. The combination of ranch seasoning, Panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese gives it a delightful crunch and rich taste, while the melted butter ensures it stays juicy and tender.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Glass baking dish (or two, if needed)
- Medium microwave-safe bowl
- Two medium mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Foil and non-stick spray (optional for easy cleanup)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- ¾ cup Panko bread crumbs
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup melted Smart Balance spread (or your choice of butter product)
- 3 tablespoons cooking sherry
- Vegetable oil (such as canola or extra virgin olive oil)
- Onion powder
- Soy sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, Panko bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
- Clean and rinse the chicken breasts, then cut each piece in half lengthwise. Use a paper towel to pat them dry.
- Melt the Smart Balance spread (or butter) in a medium microwave-safe bowl.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the melted butter, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
- Press each side of the chicken into the breading mixture, then place it in the greased baking dish.
- With any remaining breading mixture, sprinkle over the top of the chicken. Drizzle a little more melted butter over each piece if desired.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Enjoy the mouth-watering aroma as it cooks!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry to help the breading stick better.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of soy sauce or cooking sherry before breading.
- Line your baking dish with foil and spray it with non-stick spray for easier cleanup.
Additional Tips or Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the breading mix for extra flavor. You can also swap out the Parmesan for another hard cheese like Asiago for a different taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in pieces may take longer to cook through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the breading mixture and marinate the chicken in advance, but it’s best to bake it fresh for optimal crispiness.
What can I serve with this chicken? This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or mashed potatoes.
I hope you’ll give The Best Chicken Ever a try and see why it’s such a beloved recipe in my household. If you do, please share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added in the comments below. Happy cooking!
