Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or family gatherings. With juicy chicken marinated in a creamy blend of ranch dressing, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, every bite delivers smoky, savory goodness straight from the grill. This recipe is quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or garlic bread. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just want to elevate your chicken dinner, this dish is versatile and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tangy ranch, nutty Parmesan, and aromatic garlic creates an indulgent yet balanced flavor profile that makes this recipe one you’ll want to revisit often.
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Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken – Juicy, Flavorful, and Irresistible
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Juicy grilled chicken marinated in ranch seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from grill, rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Can also be cooked on a grill pan or baked at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts or thighs – Lean, tender, and perfect for absorbing the marinade.
Ranch dressing – Acts as a creamy, tangy base that keeps the chicken moist.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses deep, savory flavor.
Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty richness that enhances the marinade.
Olive oil – Helps the marinade coat the chicken and prevents sticking on the grill.
Lemon juice – Brightens the flavors while tenderizing the meat.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
Fresh parsley – A garnish for freshness and color when serving.
Directions
Start by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add chicken breasts or thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 6 hours) to allow the flavors to develop.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation takes 10 minutes, marinating requires at least 1 hour, and grilling takes 12–14 minutes. Total time: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the chicken.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy kick – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for heat.
Herb lovers – Mix in dried Italian herbs or fresh rosemary for extra aroma.
Cheese swap – Try Asiago or Romano instead of Parmesan for a twist.
Bacon-wrapped – Wrap chicken pieces in bacon before grilling for extra smokiness.
Oven-baked version – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes if grilling isn’t an option.
Skewer style – Cube the chicken and thread onto skewers with vegetables for easy serving.
Low-carb meal – Serve with roasted zucchini, cauliflower rice, or a crisp green salad.
Sandwich option – Slice and serve inside toasted buns with extra ranch dressing.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs stay juicier and add more flavor.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
Yes, marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, but even 30 minutes works in a pinch.
Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Yes, baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes works well.
What type of ranch dressing is best?
Both store-bought and homemade ranch work; just choose a creamy variety.
Can I freeze marinated chicken?
Yes, freeze raw chicken in the marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw before grilling.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Do not overcook; use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free ranch and vegan Parmesan alternative.
Conclusion
Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a flavorful, versatile recipe that brings together smoky grilling, tangy ranch, and nutty Parmesan for a winning combination. Quick to prepare, family-friendly, and customizable, it’s perfect for weeknight meals, cookouts, or entertaining. With its juicy texture and bold flavors, this chicken dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.