Hidden Valley Ranch Fried Chicken: A Tasty Twist for Your Family
When it comes to mealtime, finding creative and delicious ways to prepare chicken can transform your dining experience, especially when youโre catering to a family of six. This Hidden Valley Ranch Fried Chicken recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional fried chicken, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy every bite. With its combination of tender chicken marinated in zesty ranch dressing, seasoned with a flavorful coating, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also economical, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Name | Hidden Valley Ranch Fried Chicken |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 8 hours |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 8 hours 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Category | Chicken |
| Rating | 4 out of 5 |
| Review Count | 4 |
| Keywords | Poultry, Meat, Kid Friendly, Oven, Easy, Inexpensive |
Ingredients
This recipe calls for a few simple ingredients that you may already have on hand, allowing you to create a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broiler-fryer chickens | 1 |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Salt | ยพ teaspoon |
| Fresh ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Hidden Valley Ranch dressing | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | ยฝ inch (enough to fill your skillet) |
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, hereโs the nutritional breakdown per serving, allowing you to make informed choices for your family.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 864.5 |
| Total Fat | 65.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 190.1 mg |
| Sodium | 1397.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.5 g |
| Protein | 45.3 g |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare your Hidden Valley Ranch Fried Chicken, ensuring each piece is perfectly marinated, seasoned, and cooked to golden-brown perfection.
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Marinate the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken pieces in a shallow baking dish. Pour the Hidden Valley Ranch dressing over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for optimal flavor infusion. This step not only adds a delicious tang but also tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
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Preheat the Oven: Once the marination is complete, preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). This temperature is ideal for finishing off the chicken after frying, allowing it to cook through without burning.
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Prepare the Seasoned Flour: On a large plate, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and fresh ground black pepper. Mix well until the seasoning is evenly distributed. This seasoned flour will create a delightful crispy coating on the chicken once fried.
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Coat the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and shake off any excess marinade, discarding it to prevent contamination. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. This step is essential for achieving that coveted crunchy exterior.
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat approximately ยฝ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small cube of bread; it should brown within 60 seconds. This indicates the oil is hot enough for frying.
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Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side or until it reaches a lovely golden brown. The goal here is to develop a crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
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Transfer and Bake: Once the chicken is golden and crispy, transfer the pieces to a baking pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. This baking step helps ensure that the chicken is tender and flavorful.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve your Hidden Valley Ranch Fried Chicken with warm corn muffins for a classic touch that complements the flavors perfectly. Enjoy your meal, and watch your family savor every bite!
This Hidden Valley Ranch Fried Chicken recipe offers a unique spin on a beloved classic, making it a great addition to your familyโs dinner rotation. Its combination of convenience and flavor ensures that it will quickly become a favorite, whether served on busy weekdays or during special family gatherings. Embrace the joy of cooking with this easy and affordable dish that delivers on taste and satisfaction.
