Mississippi Mud Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Mississippi Mud Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts with tangy barbecue sauce, creamy ranch dressing, and crispy fried onions. This easy bake delivers a rich blend of textures and tastes perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and, if using, garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
3. Step 3: Place the chicken in a greased baking dish. Brush each breast with barbecue sauce and spoon ranch dressing evenly over the top.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Step 5: Bake the chicken uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Remove the dish from the oven and top each piece with crispy fried onions.
7. Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoky twist, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika when seasoning the chicken.
• Try swapping ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing for a bolder flavor.
• Use spicy barbecue sauce to add some heat to the dish.
• Serve over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage

Store leftover Mississippi Mud Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep the chicken moist and the cheese melty.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may take slightly longer to cook but will add extra juiciness and flavor.

What can I substitute for crispy fried onions?

If you don’t have crispy fried onions on hand, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed onion rings can provide a similar crunchy topping.

Mississippi Mud Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 135 reviews

• Author: Marina
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Mississippi Mud Chicken is a savory and comforting baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, melted cheddar cheese, and topped with crispy fried onions for an irresistible crunch. This easy-to-make recipe combines smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors that make for a perfect weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Sauces and Toppings

• ½ cup ranch dressing
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken evenly.

2. Season the Chicken:

   Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optionally garlic powder and smoked paprika to enhance flavor.

3. Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish:

   Grease a baking dish lightly and place the seasoned chicken breasts evenly spaced inside.

4. Add Sauces:

   Brush each chicken breast with barbecue sauce, then spoon ranch dressing over the top of each piece for a creamy layer.

5. Top with Cheese:

   Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken breasts to cover them well.

6. Bake the Chicken:

   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. Add Crispy Onions:

   Remove the dish from the oven and immediately top each chicken breast with crispy fried onions to retain crunch.

8. Rest Before Serving:

   Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for tender, juicy bites.

Notes

• You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more smoked paprika for extra smoky flavor.
• Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
• If preferred, replace ranch dressing with a homemade version for a fresher taste.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached 165°F for food safety.
• Crispy fried onions add texture but can be omitted for a softer topping.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Mississippi Mud Chicken, baked chicken, BBQ chicken, ranch chicken, cheddar cheese chicken, crispy fried onions, easy chicken dinner