Why Make This Recipe

Easy Cheddar Ranch Baked Chicken Pieces with a Crispy Twist is a quick and tasty meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of hassle. The chicken is juicy, and the crunchy topping makes it even better. Plus, with simple ingredients, you probably have everything you need right at home!

How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Baked Chicken Pieces with a Crispy Twist

Ingredients

4 chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup crushed cornflakes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 package ranch dressing mix
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, ranch dressing mix, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In another bowl, mix crushed cornflakes and shredded cheddar cheese.
Remove chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting the excess drip off, then coat each piece in the cornflake and cheese mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
Serve warm.

How to Serve Easy Cheddar Ranch Baked Chicken Pieces with a Crispy Twist

Serve the chicken hot from the oven for the best taste. It goes well with a fresh salad or some mashed potatoes. You can also add a side of veggies for a complete meal. Don’t forget to serve extra ranch dressing for dipping!

How to Store Easy Cheddar Ranch Baked Chicken Pieces with a Crispy Twist

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven to restore the crispiness or use a microwave if you are in a hurry.

Tips to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Baked Chicken Pieces with a Crispy Twist

Ensure the chicken is well coated in the buttermilk and the cornflake mixture for a crunchy exterior.
Letting the chicken marinate longer can enhance the flavor.
Use different types of cheese if you want to try something new!

Variation

You can easily switch up the flavors by using different seasoning mixes instead of ranch. Spicy seasonings or herbed blends can give a new twist to the dish!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or legs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work just fine, but they might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for the cornflakes?
Yes, look for gluten-free cornflake brands or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers.

3. Can I bake the chicken without marinating it?
You can, but marinating helps to keep the chicken moist and adds extra flavor.