“Ranch Chicken Recipe” As someone who grew up in the South, I have always been a devoted fan of buttermilk. I get it—not everyone keeps a carton in the fridge, but you should. While substitutes exist, they simply can’t match the real deal. Buttermilk has a unique tangy and creamy texture, is affordable, and lasts surprisingly long when refrigerated. It’s a must-have ingredient for making flaky biscuits, fluffy pancakes, crispy fried chicken, and rich ranch dressing.
If I needed another reason to adore buttermilk, Samin Nosrat’s buttermilk-brined chicken would be it. This Ranch Chicken recipe gained worldwide attention after the release of her acclaimed cookbook, “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat.” In the recipe, an entire chicken is brined with buttermilk and salt before roasting, resulting in a perfectly flavorful, juicy, and crispy chicken.
After trying this Ranch Chicken recipe numerous times, I’ve made a few tweaks to suit my cooking style. A variation is to apply the same brining technique to chicken pieces rather than a whole bird. This approach takes less time and results in even crispier skin. Plus, it’s much easier to fit into the fridge when marinating.
And here’s a little twist: since we’re already using buttermilk, why not throw in some herbs and seasoning to make ranch chicken? This technique gives you incredibly tender, flavorful chicken with just the hint of ranch goodness. Finish it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and you’ve got a dish perfect for a casual weeknight or a particular dinner party.
Table of Contents
Make This Ranch Chicken Recipe Your Own
Try Different Cuts of Chicken: I usually buy a whole chicken and break it into two breasts and two quarters. However, you can easily swap in two skin-on chicken breasts and four bone-in, skin-on thighs. I strongly recommend using chicken with both the bone and skin intact—it results in juicier, more flavorful meat. Plus, achieving that deliciously crispy skin is one of the main reasons to use the buttermilk marinade!
Adjust the Recipe Size: If you only want to roast a couple of chicken breasts, simply halve the marinade ingredients. This way, you’ll have half a packet of ranch seasoning saved for next time. The marinating and roasting times remain unchanged.
Perfect Sides for Ranch Chicken
1. Ranch Chicken Recipe
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Marinating Time: 12 hours
Total Time: 12 hours and 40 minutes
2. Ingredients to make Ranch Chicken
Optional: 1/2 cup of freshly chopped herbs such as dill, chives, or parsley
2 cups of buttermilk
One packet of ranch seasoning (weighing 1 to 1.5 ounces)
One tablespoon of kosher salt, plus extra for seasoning as needed
Approximately 3 1/2 pounds of chicken pieces, bone-in and skin-on
Optional: 1/2 a small lemon
3. Method:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin your culinary adventure by preparing a flavorful marinade in a large mixing bowl. You will combine buttermilk, ranch seasoning, and a pinch of salt, whisking them together until the mixture is thoroughly blended and smooth. This marinade is crucial as it enhances the chicken’s flavor and tenderizes the meat, allowing it to absorb all the beautiful flavors. Once your chicken pieces are completely submerged in the marinade, ensure they are well-coated by gently stirring. This marinating step is vital for achieving juicy and flavorful chicken. After coating, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for a minimum of 12 hours or up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare for Roasting
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator when ready to bring your dish to life. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, as this helps it cook more evenly in the oven. While the chicken is warming up, Set your oven to preheat at 425°F (220°C). Position a rack in the center. Next, take the time to grease a baking dish, casserole, or a rimmed baking sheet large enough to accommodate the chicken pieces in a single layer. This preparation is critical to ensuring the chicken doesn’t stick during roasting.
Once your oven is preheated and the chicken has reached a slightly warmer temperature, use tongs to lift each piece from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Arrange the chicken skin-side up in the prepared dish, ensuring there is some space between each piece for even cooking. You can sprinkle a little extra salt on top for an additional flavor. Be sure to discard any leftover marinade to avoid contamination.
Step 3: Roast the Chicken
It’s time to roast your chicken to perfection now! Position the baking dish in the center of the preheated oven and let it bake. Uncovered. Keep a close eye on the internal temperature of the chicken. For the best results, make sure the chicken breasts reach at least 155°F (68°C) when measured away from the bone, while the darker meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This cooking process typically takes about 30 minutes, but using a meat thermometer will ensure accuracy. Remee chicken’s internal temperature will continue to rise slightly as it rests after being removed from the oven, reaching a safe 165°F.
Step 4: Serve Ranch Chicken
After the chicken is roasted, it should rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This resting period is important as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish. Consider squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving for a refreshing finish. This adds a delightful brightness and flavor. You can also sprinkle chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to elevate the presentation and taste.
Step 5: Storage
If you have any leftover chicken, you can easily store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to four days. This convenient storage method helps prevent spoilage, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors of your meal later. When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, gently reheat the chicken in the microwave or a skillet for a quick meal.
Conclusion for Ranch Chicken
In conclusion, this Ranch Chicken Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines juicy, tender chicken with the savory flavors of ranch seasoning. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a dish everyone loves, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
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