Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and stay even juicier. Increase the cook time by 5 to 10 minutes and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What if I don't have ranch dressing?

You can mix Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning mix for a healthier alternative, or substitute with a creamy Caesar dressing for a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent dry chicken?

Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken as soon as it hits 165°F. Overcooking is the main cause of dry chicken. Also, avoid using extra-lean chicken breasts, as a little fat helps keep the meat moist.

Easy Mississippi Mud Chicken Recipe - Simple Comfort Food Dinner

Name: Mississippi Mud Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 to 8 oz each); 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought); Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika

Mississippi Mud Chicken

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A comforting Southern-style dish with BBQ, ranch, melted cheddar, and crispy onions – all baked to perfection for an easy weeknight dinner.

Author: Sarah Mae Carter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 to 8 oz each)
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or smoked paprika on both sides.
Place chicken in prepared baking dish. Brush each piece with BBQ sauce and spoon ranch dressing over each breast.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and cheese is bubbly.
Remove from oven and top each piece with crispy fried onions.
Let rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for food safety and optimal juiciness.
Add crispy onions just before serving to maintain their crunch. Store separately if meal prepping.
Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5 minutes to cook time if baking from cold.
Swap chicken breasts for thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Increase cook time by 5 to 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (8 oz)
Calories: 425 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 890 mg
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 38 g
Cholesterol: 125 mg

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/mississippi-mud-chicken/