Name: Buffalo Ranch Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; ⅓ cup olive oil; ½ cup bottled ranch dressing; ⅓ cup buffalo wing sauce; 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 garlic clove, minced

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There’s something so comforting about a dish like Buffalo Ranch Chicken. I remember the first time I made it for my friends during a casual game night. The aroma of grilling chicken wafting through the house was enough to get everyone excited. As we gathered around the table, I could see their faces light up with anticipation. The whole atmosphere felt alive, filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. This recipe quickly became a staple in our gatherings – it’s simple, yet packed with flavor. The spicy kick of buffalo sauce combined with the creamy ranch dressing makes for a delightful balance that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s game night, a summer barbecue, or just a cozy dinner at home, Buffalo Ranch Chicken never disappoints. I love how easy it is to prepare and how it brings people together. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and it’s always a hit!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
34 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Charcoal Chimney Starter, Grilling Tongs, Cast Iron Grill Pan, Mixing Bowls

Why Try This Buffalo Ranch Chicken

Flavor Explosion

The first reason Buffalo Ranch Chicken stands out is the incredible flavor combination. The spicy buffalo sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy ranch dressing, creating a delicious harmony that tantalizes your taste buds. It’s a flavor explosion that you’ll crave time and time again.

Easy to Prepare

Another reason to love this dish is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a meal that’s not only satisfying but also stress-free. I often find myself making it on busy weeknights when I want something delicious but don’t have much time.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, feeding a crowd during the game, or just enjoying a cozy night in, Buffalo Ranch Chicken fits the bill. It adapts beautifully to any setting, making it our go-to recipe for gatherings.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and love to meal prep, this recipe is perfect. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, and it gets even better as it sits! Just grill it up when you’re ready to eat, and you have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you.

Kid-Friendly Flavor

Lastly, Buffalo Ranch Chicken is a hit with the kids! The flavors are bold, yet approachable, making it ideal for family dinners. It’s a great way to introduce a little spice into their meals without overwhelming their palates.

What You’ll Need for Buffalo Ranch Chicken

Creating Buffalo Ranch Chicken requires just a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor, ensuring every bite is packed with the right amount of spice and creaminess. Let’s dive into the key players that make this dish shine.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing a lean protein base that soaks up the flavors of the marinade.
⅓ cup olive oil: This adds richness and helps the other ingredients stick to the chicken, ensuring a flavorful crust when grilled.
½ cup bottled ranch dressing: Creamy and tangy, it balances the heat of the buffalo sauce and brings a delightful creaminess to the dish.
⅓ cup buffalo wing sauce: This is where the heat comes from! You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
1 garlic clove, minced: Fresh garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic qualities, enhancing all the flavors.

Instructions for Buffalo Ranch Chicken

Making Buffalo Ranch Chicken is as exciting as the flavors it offers. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress. I love how each stage builds anticipation for that delicious meal ahead!

Start by taking the chicken breasts and placing them in a gallon ziplock bag. This helps keep everything contained and makes for easy marinating.
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures that it cooks evenly and makes it more tender. You want to see a nice flat surface that will grill beautifully.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, ranch dressing, buffalo wing sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic. This marinade is key to infusing flavor. The smell will make your mouth water!
Pour the marinade over the chicken in the ziplock bag, sealing it tightly. Make sure the chicken is well coated. It’s best to let this marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the chicken, creating a nice crust.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the marinade to avoid contamination.
Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. You’re looking for a nice golden color on the outside.
To check for doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to be sure.
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.
Slice the chicken and serve it with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy every spicy, creamy bite of your Buffalo Ranch Chicken!

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step!
Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated before placing the chicken on it. A hot grill gives a nice sear.
Resting Period: Letting the chicken rest after cooking is crucial. It ensures the juices are retained, making the chicken moist.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on preference. For a milder flavor, use less or opt for a milder sauce.

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints to make your Buffalo Ranch Chicken cooking experience even better. From storage to serving, these tips ensure a successful meal!

Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy again.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
Pairing: Serve with veggies, a fresh salad, or even some grilled corn on the cob for a full meal.
Make it Spicy: For those who love heat, consider adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Grill several batches to have on hand for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Perfect Matches for Buffalo Ranch Chicken

When it comes to serving Buffalo Ranch Chicken, there are plenty of delicious options to consider:

Fresh Salads: Pair the chicken with a crisp green salad dressed with ranch for a refreshing contrast.
Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful and healthy plate.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the spiciness of the chicken perfectly and adds a summer vibe.
Dinner Parties: This dish is ideal for gatherings, whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a festive occasion.
Wraps and Sandwiches: Leftover chicken works great in wraps with lettuce and extra ranch dressing.
Game Day: Perfect for serving at parties while watching the big game with friends.

FAQ

Buffalo Ranch Chicken is a flavorful dish made with chicken breasts marinated in a tangy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing. It’s perfect for grilling and is a favorite at parties and gatherings.

Making Buffalo Ranch Chicken involves marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic. After marinating, simply grill the chicken until cooked through and enjoy!

Yes! In fact, Buffalo Ranch Chicken benefits from marinating overnight. You can prep it the day before and grill it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it great for meal prepping or planning for parties.

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob. You can also serve it in wraps for an easy lunch or quick dinner. It’s versatile and can suit any occasion!

Conclusion

In summary, Buffalo Ranch Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings people together. I encourage you to try it for your next gathering or family dinner. You won’t regret it – it’s bound to be a favorite at your table!