Buttermilk Ranch Oven Fried Chicken That Will Wow You

Name: Buttermilk Ranch Oven Fried Chicken That Will Wow You
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 4 chicken drumsticks; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

July 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolutely favorite dish: buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken! Seriously, this chicken is a game changer. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, with that irresistible ranch flavor that just makes your taste buds do a little happy dance. I remember the first time I made this—it was a rainy day, and I was looking for something cozy and comforting. I had some buttermilk in the fridge, and I thought, “Why not?” Trust me, it’s become a staple in my house ever since!

You’re going to love how easy it is to whip up this dish. The buttermilk not only adds a tangy richness but also helps to tenderize the chicken, keeping it moist while it bakes to golden perfection. The ranch seasoning brings that familiar flavor we all adore, and when you coat it in breadcrumbs, oh boy, the crunch is simply divine! So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into making the best buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken you’ll ever taste!

buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need to create this mouthwatering buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken. I love how each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. Let’s get into it!

4 chicken thighs: I prefer using thighs for their juicy texture, but feel free to mix in drumsticks if you like! Just make sure they’re bone-in and skin-on for that perfect crunch.
4 chicken drumsticks: These add an extra fun element to the dish! The crispy skin and tender meat really soak up all the flavors.
1 cup buttermilk: This is the star of the show! It adds a tangy richness and helps keep the chicken moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute with milk and a splash of vinegar.
2 tablespoons ranch seasoning: This is where the magic happens! You can use store-bought ranch seasoning or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
1 cup breadcrumbs: I love using plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunch. Panko works great too if you want an even crispier coating!
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This brings a lovely depth of flavor that complements the ranch seasoning perfectly.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Just like garlic powder, it adds a savory note that enhances the overall taste.
1 teaspoon paprika: This gives a nice color and a hint of smokiness that makes the chicken even more appealing.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season to your liking! A little extra salt can really elevate the flavors.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to make some amazing buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken! Trust me, the flavor explosion is worth every bit of effort.

How to Prepare Buttermilk Ranch Oven Fried Chicken

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this scrumptious buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken. Just follow these steps, and I promise you’ll have a dish that’ll make everyone at the table swoon!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because a hot oven helps to create that crispy texture we all love. So, while you’re prepping everything else, let that oven do its thing!

Step 2: Prepare the Buttermilk Mixture

Now, grab a bowl and mix together 1 cup of buttermilk and 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning. Whisk it until it’s well combined—this creamy mixture is going to work wonders, infusing your chicken with flavor and tenderness. If you want to get fancy, you can even add a pinch of garlic or onion powder to this mix for an extra kick!

Step 3: Soak the Chicken

Time to soak! Take your chicken (the thighs and drumsticks) and place them in the buttermilk mixture. Make sure they’re completely covered. Let them soak for at least 1 hour—this is key for ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. If you can, let it soak longer (up to overnight in the fridge is fantastic), but at the very least, give it that hour to work its magic!

Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating

While your chicken is soaking, let’s get that breadcrumb coating ready. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all together until it’s well blended. This coating is going to add that delicious crunch that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken!

Step 5: Dredge the Chicken

Once your chicken has soaked long enough, it’s time to dredge! Remove each piece from the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, carefully coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure every bit gets covered. This is where the fun happens—get your hands in there and make sure each piece is coated evenly!

Step 6: Baking the Chicken

Now, place your beautifully coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure there’s some space between each piece for even cooking. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is golden brown and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. For that extra crispiness, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, and there you have it—perfectly crispy, flavorful buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken that’s bound to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of tangy buttermilk and zesty ranch seasoning delivers a flavor explosion that will keep you coming back for more.
Crispy Texture: Baking instead of frying gives you that satisfying crunch without all the extra oil—perfectly crispy every time!
Juicy Chicken: The buttermilk soak helps to keep the chicken tender and moist, so you won’t have to worry about dry meat.
Gluten-Free Option: Just choose gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’ve got a dish that everyone can enjoy!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any dinner table!
Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides or toss it in salads for a tasty twist. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some tips that I’ve picked up along the way to ensure you get the best results:

Use High-Quality Chicken: Whenever possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken. It can make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture!
Don’t Skip the Soak: Seriously, let your chicken soak in that buttermilk mixture for at least an hour. It’s the secret to juicy, tender meat that’s bursting with flavor!
Season Generously: When preparing your breadcrumb coating, don’t hold back on the salt and pepper. A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the overall taste.
Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the right temperature. You want that perfect golden-brown finish!
Keep It Spacey: When placing the chicken on the baking sheet, give each piece some room. This allows the hot air to circulate, giving you that lovely crispiness all around.
Rest Before Serving: Allow your chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite super juicy!
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the ranch seasoning by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Dried dill or a dash of cayenne can elevate the flavor even more!
Make It Ahead: You can soak the chicken overnight for even more flavor. Just cover it and pop it in the fridge—easy peasy!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve created this amazing buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken, let’s talk about what to serve with it! I love how versatile this dish is, and there are so many delicious sides that perfectly complement the crispy, flavorful chicken. Here are some of my favorites:

Classic Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the savory chicken. The creaminess pairs beautifully with the ranch flavors!
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are always a hit. They soak up all the juices from the chicken, making every bite heavenly.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until they’re tender and caramelized. Such a colorful addition!
Macaroni and Cheese: You can never go wrong with a gooey, cheesy mac! The creamy cheese sauce complements the crunchy chicken perfectly.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn on the cob is a classic side that screams summer. Just slather it with butter and a sprinkle of salt!
Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add a fresh touch to your meal and balance out the richness of the chicken.
Baked Beans: The sweet and smoky flavors of baked beans create a lovely contrast with the savory chicken. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare!
Sweet Potato Fries: For a fun twist, serve some crispy sweet potato fries. They add a touch of sweetness and a fun crunch!

Whichever sides you choose, your buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken is bound to shine at the dinner table. Enjoy playing around with different combinations, and don’t forget to share your favorites with friends and family!

Nutritional Information

As you dig into this delicious buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken, you might be curious about the nutritional side of things. Here’s a quick estimated breakdown per serving, which I hope helps you enjoy this dish while keeping an eye on your meal planning:

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g

Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But with all that crispy, flavorful goodness, I think you’ll find this dish well worth every bite! Enjoy your meal with peace of mind, knowing you’re indulging in something truly delicious!

FAQ Section

Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but I highly recommend keeping the skin on for that crispy texture! The skin helps to hold in moisture and gets wonderfully crunchy in the oven.

What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
No worries! You can make a homemade version using a mix of dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It’s super easy and just as delicious!

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! In fact, marinating overnight will give the chicken even more flavor. Just make sure to cover it well in the fridge.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for juices that run clear when pierced; no pink should remain!

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! You can freeze any leftover chicken. Just make sure to let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. It should be good for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What side dishes pair well with buttermilk ranch oven fried chicken?
Oh, there are so many great options! I love serving it with coleslaw, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can’t go wrong with classic sides!

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! Just preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, checking for that lovely golden color and doneness.

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, add some cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture or mix in some hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade. It’ll give you a nice spicy flavor without overpowering the ranch!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can be gluten-free! Just swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’re all set. Enjoy this delicious dish without any worries!

"As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases."

You might also like it

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe: 5 Crispy Secrets

Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole: 5 Comforting Reasons to Enjoy

air fryer chicken wings crispy delights recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Wings Crispy Delights for 5-Star Flavor

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.