Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful weeknight dinner, look no further than these Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs. This recipe brings together juicy chicken thighs coated in zesty ranch seasoning, resulting in a dish that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. The best part? It requires minimal prep time and lets the oven do all the hard work. Just pop the chicken in, set a timer, and go about your evening. The savory aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone rushing to the dining table!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Ranch seasoning is the star of the show in this dish, providing a burst of flavor that elevates the chicken to new heights. The combination of herbs and spices in ranch seasoning gives the chicken a deliciously tangy taste, while baking ensures the thighs remain incredibly moist and tender. Plus, using bone-in chicken thighs adds extra flavor and juiciness that boneless cuts simply can’t compete with. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends.

What’s in the Bowl

Here’s what you need to create these delicious Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs:

• 5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in – About 8 chicken thighs, providing plenty for the entire family.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps the seasoning adhere and adds a touch of richness.
• 3 tbsp Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning – The secret to that unmistakable ranch flavor.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

You’ll need a few essential tools to make this recipe a breeze:

• Large mixing bowl – For tossing the chicken with oil and seasoning.
• Oven-safe baking dish – To hold the chicken while it bakes to perfection.
• Meat thermometer – To ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
• Cooking brush (optional) – In case you want to spread the oil evenly over the chicken.

Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs: How It’s Done

Follow these simple steps to create your Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook through while achieving a nice golden brown exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil. Use your hands or a cooking brush to ensure each piece is well-coated.

Step 3: Season Generously

Sprinkle the Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning over the chicken thighs. Make sure to coat all sides for maximum flavor. You can add a bit more seasoning if you love that ranch taste!

Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up in an oven-safe baking dish. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken skin should be crispy and golden brown.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions, consider the following options:

• Chicken breasts – You can swap in boneless chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time as they cook faster.
• Other seasonings – If you don’t have ranch seasoning, a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs can work in a pinch.
• Avocado oil or canola oil – These can be used instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile.

Avoid These Traps

To ensure your Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. This can cause the chicken to steam rather than roast, resulting in soggy skin.
• Be cautious with the seasoning. While ranch flavor is delicious, too much can overpower the dish.
• Don’t skip the resting step. Allowing the chicken to rest post-baking is key to juicy thighs.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! These Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs make for excellent meal prep. Here are some ideas:

Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can easily reheat them in the oven or microwave. Consider shredding the leftover chicken for salads, wraps, or sandwiches for a quick and flavorful meal. These thighs also freeze well—just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Your Top Questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer.

What can I serve with Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The safest way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer. Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be considered fully cooked.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the olive oil and ranch seasoning overnight can enhance the flavor even further. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs recipe, you might also like:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken
• Honey Balsamic Glazed Chicken
• Spicy Baked Chicken Wings
• One-Pan Lemon Chicken

Before You Go

Now that you have the recipe for perfect Ranch Baked Chicken Thighs, it’s time to bring it to your kitchen. This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, it’s bound to impress. Enjoy the bold flavors and juicy goodness of these chicken thighs, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media! Happy cooking!