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Bacon Wrapped Ranch Chicken is one of those irresistible dishes that wins over picky eaters and makes weeknight dinners feel a little more special. Each tender strip of chicken coated in ranch seasoning and hugged by bacon has just the right balance of salt smoke and savory that leaves everyone reaching for seconds and fighting for leftovers.
I made this the first time as a quick dinner when we hosted some hungry friends and it became an instant favorite. Now my family practically cheers when they smell it baking.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Boneless skinless chicken is best for easy slicing and quick cooking. Look for chicken that is plump and has a fresh pink color.
- Olive oil: Coats the chicken so seasonings stick and keeps the meat moist. Choose extra virgin for better flavor.
- Bacon: Use regular cut so it crisps up nicely and wraps tightly. Look for bacon with plenty of pink meat and just enough fat.
- Ranch seasoning: Adds that classic herby tang. Try to find a ranch blend with dried dill parsley and chives for the best flavor.
- Onion powder: Sweet and sharp foundation for the ranch profile. Make sure it is fresh and not clumped.
- Garlic powder: Rounds out the savory notes. Use a powder that smells fragrant and never musty.
- Paprika: Gives color and gentle smoky warmth. Spanish or Hungarian paprika both work.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for highlighting all the flavors. Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice each chicken breast lengthwise into three equal strips. Try to keep the thickness uniform so they cook evenly.
- Season the Chicken:
- Drizzle the strips with olive oil. Massage it into the meat so every surface is slick. Sprinkle both sides generously with ranch seasoning onion powder garlic powder paprika salt and black pepper. Pat the spices into the chicken.
- Wrap with Bacon:
- Lay a bacon slice flat and wrap it snugly around each chicken strip spiraling so the whole piece is covered. Place each wrapped chicken strip seam side down in a lightly greased casserole dish.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Arrange the bacon wrapped chicken strips with a small gap between each one for air circulation. Bake in the center of the oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken reads 165 degrees inside. For extra crispy bacon move the dish under the broiler on high for the last two minutes watching closely to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest five minutes in the dish so juices redistribute. Serve right away with your favorite sides.
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I always look forward to the way the ranch seasoning melts into the bacon as it bakes together. My kids call these magic chicken strips and love sopping up the extra juices with crusty bread.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They keep in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer. For longer storage freeze individually wrapped strips and thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap turkey bacon if you want something lighter though it may not crisp up quite the same. For chicken you can also use boneless thighs if you prefer dark meat. Even swapping in a homemade ranch powder gives it your own twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these savory strips with mashed potatoes roasted veggies or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They are fantastic in wraps sandwiches or diced up over salads for lunch the next day.
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A Bit of Background
Bacon wrapped chicken is a classic American comfort dish made popular by potlucks and family dinners. The addition of ranch seasoning is a modern twist that brings tons of herby flavor in every bite without any fuss or measuring out a dozen spices.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for tenderness and easy slicing. Chicken tenders or thighs can be substituted but may require slight adjustments to cooking time.
- → How do I keep the bacon crispy?
Bake the dish uncovered and broil for 1-2 minutes before serving to achieve crispier bacon around the chicken.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the wrapped chicken strips ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Wait to bake until just before serving for best texture.
- → Is there a substitute for ranch seasoning?
If ranch seasoning isn’t on hand, blend dried parsley, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, and a touch of powdered buttermilk for a similar flavor profile.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Popular sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a crisp salad to balance the rich flavor.