How to Make “The Best Chicken Ever” Hands Down, No Lie

An Irresistible Chicken Recipe You’ll Want to Try

Today, I’m excited to share a beloved recipe that I’ve carried over from my old blog because it’s simply a must-have. Trust me, you need to try “The Best Chicken Ever” recipe too! (Though, I must admit, I forgot to pick up soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and cooking sherry during my grocery trip today.)

This recipe has a bit of history. Mel emailed it to me, claiming she got it from Rachael Ray. My version has a few tweaks, but the essence remains deliciously intact!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this chicken recipe because it’s simple yet incredibly flavorful. The combination of ranch dressing mix, Parmesan cheese, and panko bread crumbs creates a crispy, savory crust that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and makes for a delightful meal any night of the week.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium bowls (2)
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Greased baking dish (or two)
• Foil (optional)
• Paper towels
• Oven

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

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, panko bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
3. Clean and rinse the chicken breasts. Cut each piece in half lengthwise and pat dry with a paper towel.
4. Melt the Smart Balance spread (or butter) in a microwave-safe bowl.
5. Dip each piece of chicken into the melted butter, ensuring both sides are coated.
6. Press each side of the chicken into the breading mixture, ensuring an even coat.
7. Place the chicken in a greased baking dish. For added ease, you can line the dish with foil sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
8. Sprinkle any leftover breading mixture over the chicken and drizzle with a bit more melted butter if desired.
9. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Enjoy the delicious aroma as it cooks!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chicken is thoroughly dried before coating to help the breading stick better.
• Use foil to line the baking dish for easier cleanup.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the breading mix for a different flavor profile. You can also use regular bread crumbs if panko isn’t available, though the texture will be slightly less crispy.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 18g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked.

Q: What can I serve with this chicken?

A: This chicken pairs well with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

I hope you find this recipe as delightful as I do. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below. Happy cooking!