Valley Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe: Simple, Flavorful, and Nutritious
Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken requires only a few ingredients to achieve its delicious, savory flavor. You’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless for tenderness.
- Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning: The key to the dish’s irresistible taste.
- Olive Oil: Adds moisture and aids in baking.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the flavor.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of color and spice.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
Preparation Time and Cooking Instructions
This meal is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. The total preparation time is around 10 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
These instructions ensure a flavorful and moist Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken every time.
Nutritional Value
Calorie Content
Each serving of Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken typically contains around 250-300 calories. The exact number depends on the chicken breast’s size and additional ingredients. Here’s a breakdown:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
Chicken breasts provide high protein content while being relatively low in carbohydrates. The olive oil and ranch seasoning contribute to the fat content.
Health Benefits and Concerns
Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken offers several health benefits and potential concerns.
Health Benefits:
- Protein: Provides about 30g of high-quality protein per serving, aiding muscle growth and repair.
- Low Carbs: Contains only 5g of carbohydrates per serving, suitable for low-carb diets.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Offers essential vitamins (B6, niacin) and minerals (phosphorus, selenium).
- Sodium Content: Ranch seasoning can be high in sodium, affecting those monitoring their salt intake.
- Fat Content: Contains around 12g of fat per serving, with some from olive oil being healthy fats.
By balancing portions and considering dietary restrictions, you can enjoy the nutritional benefits of Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken while mitigating concerns.
Flavor Profile and Texture
How Ranch Enhances the Chicken
Ranch seasoning infuses the chicken with a rich blend of buttermilk, garlic, and herbs. This combination elevates the natural flavors, creating a savory and slightly tangy profile. Enhanced umami notes come from the seasoning’s salt and spices, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. The chicken retains its juiciness, thanks to the buttermilk which acts as a tenderizing agent during marination and baking.
Comparison to Other Chicken Recipes
When compared to classic recipes like lemon herb or barbecue chicken, Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken offers a unique flavor profile. Lemon herb chicken focuses on citrus and herbal notes, providing a light and fresh taste. Barbecue chicken, on the other hand, delivers a smoky and sweet flavor due to the sauce. Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken stands out with its creamy, tangy, and herbaceous blend. The texture remains moist, contrasting with potentially drier results from some grilled or roasted chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Suitable Sides
Complement the flavors of Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken with well-chosen side dishes. Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and brussels sprouts create a colorful and healthy plate. Mashed potatoes, drizzled with a bit of ranch dressing, provide a creamy counterpart to the tangy chicken. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
Occasions and Pairings
Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken suits a variety of occasions. For a weeknight dinner, pair it with simple sides like steamed rice or a baked potato to keep preparation quick. If you’re hosting a gathering, enhance the dish with more elaborate pairings such as garlic buttered green beans and a quinoa salad with cranberries and almonds. For a summer barbecue, serve the chicken alongside grilled corn on the cob and coleslaw for a complete, hearty meal.
Conclusion
Hidden Valley Baked Ranch Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich blend of buttermilk garlic and herbs transforms simple chicken breasts into a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re serving it with roasted vegetables for a quick weeknight dinner or pairing it with mashed potatoes and fresh salads for a special gathering this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and discover how easy it is to elevate your chicken dinners with Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning.
