Mediterranean Simple Baked Ranch Chicken
Light, flavorful, and fuss-free, this baked ranch chicken infuses Mediterranean herbs with classic creamy ranch flavor. It’s juicy, garlicky, and herby — perfect for weeknight dinners or easy meal prep. Serve it with a Greek salad, roasted veggies, or rice for a balanced Mediterranean-style meal.
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix (or homemade, see tip)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Coat and Marinate (optional):
Rub or brush the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts. For deeper flavor, let marinate for 15–30 minutes (optional but recommended).
Bake:
Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden.
Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with your favorite Mediterranean sides.
Tips
Pound chicken evenly: If using breasts, gently pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Don’t skip resting time: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking keeps it juicy when sliced.
Use a meat thermometer: For best texture, remove chicken from the oven at 165°F (74°C) internal temp.
Make your own ranch seasoning: Combine 1 tsp dried dill, 1 tsp parsley, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper for a Mediterranean-friendly ranch mix.
Variations
Add vegetables: Surround the chicken with cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, or bell peppers before baking for an all-in-one dish.
Make it creamy: Top with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tzatziki after baking for added richness and tang.
Use thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving in the oven than breasts — perfect for this dish.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or harissa for a little Mediterranean heat.
Grill instead of bake: This recipe adapts well to grilling—just cook on medium heat until done, flipping halfway.
Q&A
Q: Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
A: Yes! Homemade is a great option to control sodium and keep it Mediterranean-friendly. Just mix dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Q: Is it okay to marinate overnight?
A: Absolutely. The chicken becomes even more flavorful when marinated longer. Just keep it covered in the fridge.
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A: Yes, but extend the baking time to about 40–45 minutes and check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: What side dishes go well with this?
A: Try lemon herb couscous, roasted eggplant, tabbouleh, Greek salad, or sautéed spinach for a full Mediterranean meal.
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving; based on 4 servings using chicken breasts)
Calories: ~290
Protein: ~28g
Fat: ~18g
Carbs: ~2g
Fiber: ~0.5g
Sodium: ~450mg (depends on ranch mix)
Note: Nutrition varies slightly based on type of chicken, seasoning brand, and sides.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Simple Baked Ranch Chicken is a flavorful fusion dish that brings together zesty herbs, creamy ranch notes, and juicy baked chicken in one fuss-free recipe. With minimal prep and a short bake time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or Mediterranean-inspired meal prep. Whether served with vegetables, grains, or a vibrant salad, it’s a protein-packed centerpiece the whole family will enjoy.