Sriracha Ranch Chicken

Sriracha Ranch Chicken

Cooking has always been a creative outlet for me, and one of my favorite dishes to whip up is Sriracha Ranch Chicken. The combination of flavors in this dish takes me back to summer barbecues with friends, when we’d gather around the grill, the air filled with laughter and the tantalizing smell of something delicious cooking. I remember the first time I made this recipe; the spicy kick of the Sriracha contrasted perfectly with the creamy ranch dressing, creating a delightful marinade for the chicken. Every bite brings a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist, making it an instant favorite in my household. I love serving it with a side of fresh veggies or a simple salad, and it never fails to impress my guests. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a weekend gathering, Sriracha Ranch Chicken is the perfect dish to bring everyone together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins
Prep Time:
0 mins
Cook Time:
0 mins
Difficulty:
Easy
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
28 g
Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
25 g
Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon

The Magic of This Sriracha Ranch Chicken

Bold Flavors

One of the reasons I adore Sriracha Ranch Chicken is its vibrant flavor profile. The creamy ranch dressing adds a rich texture, while the spicy Sriracha offers just the right amount of heat. Together, they create a well-balanced marinade that enhances the natural taste of the chicken.

Easy Preparation

This dish is simple to prepare. Just mix the marinade, marinate the chicken, and grill it. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. You can easily whip it up and let it sit while you focus on other tasks.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you love meal prepping, Sriracha Ranch Chicken is an excellent choice. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, making leftovers just as tasty the next day. You can pair it with different sides throughout the week for variety.

Grill Marks and Juiciness

Grilling the chicken gives it beautiful grill marks and locks in juices, making for a satisfying meal. The high heat creates a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving perfectly grilled chicken!

Flexibility in Serving

This recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a family dinner, or even at a potluck, Sriracha Ranch Chicken always holds its own. You can easily adjust the spiciness by altering the amount of Sriracha, catering to everyone’s taste.

Kid-Friendly Option

Surprisingly, kids love this dish too! The creamy ranch dressing mellows the spiciness, making it approachable for younger palates. You can serve it with their favorite sides to create a meal that is both appealing and satisfying.

Everything You Need for Sriracha Ranch Chicken

Sriracha Ranch Chicken

The ingredients for Sriracha Ranch Chicken are straightforward yet powerful. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the delicious marinade that will elevate your chicken to new heights. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil – This acts as a base for the marinade, adding richness and helping to keep the chicken moist.
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the heat of the Sriracha.
  • 3 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Contributes depth and umami to the marinade.
  • 2-3 Tbsp Sriracha – Provides that spicy kick that makes this dish exciting.
  • 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
  • 1 tsp lemon juice – Adds brightness and acidity for balance.
  • 1 tsp white vinegar – Works alongside the lemon juice to tenderize the chicken.
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper – A classic seasoning that complements the other flavors.
  • 1 Tbsp white sugar – Balances the heat and acidity with a touch of sweetness.
  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves – The star of the dish, soaking up all the marinade goodness.

How to Make Sriracha Ranch Chicken

Sriracha Ranch Chicken

Making Sriracha Ranch Chicken is a delightful experience that brings the family together. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love. Here’s how you do it:

  1. In a medium bowl, stir together the olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, Sriracha, salt, lemon juice, white vinegar, ground black pepper, and white sugar. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined, as this will form the marinade that gives the chicken its flavor.
  2. Pound the chicken breast to an even thickness. This is important because it ensures that the chicken cooks evenly. You don’t want some pieces overcooked while others are underdone.
  3. Place the chicken in a gallon-size ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag. Toss it gently to coat the chicken completely. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor absorption.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors, resulting in a moist and flavorful meal.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This is essential for achieving those perfect grill marks and ensuring a nice char on the outside.
  6. Once the grill is heated, take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Carefully place the chicken on the grill.
  7. Grill the chicken for 8 to 12 minutes. You want the chicken to be no longer pink in the center, and the juices should run clear. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking; you want it tender and juicy.
  8. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more succulent.
  9. Slice the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides. Enjoy the burst of flavors from the Sriracha Ranch Chicken and the joy it brings to your table!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Let the Chicken Marinate: Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for a significant period deeply flavors the meat. Overnight marinating is ideal.
  • Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is adequately heated before placing the chicken on it. This ensures a perfect sear and prevents sticking.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is safe to eat, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
  • Resting Time Matters: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling will help retain juices, making every bite tender and moist.

Recipe Notes about Sriracha Ranch Chicken

Sriracha Ranch Chicken

When preparing Sriracha Ranch Chicken, there are several tips and notes to keep in mind to enhance your cooking experience.

  • Storage: Store leftover Sriracha Ranch Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This will help maintain its flavor and texture.
  • Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well sealed to avoid freezer burn.
  • Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a side of rice to soak up those delicious flavors.
  • Spicy Level: If you’re serving this to kids or those sensitive to heat, consider reducing the amount of Sriracha. You can always serve extra on the side for those who enjoy a kick.
  • Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to tweak the marinade ingredients. Adding fresh herbs or different spices can create unique flavors.

What to Pair With Sriracha Ranch Chicken

When it comes to serving Sriracha Ranch Chicken, there are countless options that can complement its bold flavors.

  • Grilled Vegetables: Pair it with a mix of seasonal grilled vegetables for a colorful and healthy plate.
  • Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing makes for a refreshing side.
  • Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf or jasmine rice can absorb the delicious marinade juices.
  • Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a nice crunch, balancing the tenderness of the chicken.
  • Fresh Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the chicken, making it a delightful addition.
  • Wraps or Tacos: Leftovers can easily be used in wraps or tacos, making for a quick lunch option.
  • Summer Barbecues: This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, paired with potato salad, corn on the cob, or baked beans.

FAQ

Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe! Chicken thighs are juicier and have a richer flavor, which makes them an excellent option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.

For the best flavor, I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 8 hours, or even overnight if possible. This allows the Sriracha and ranch dressing to penetrate the meat, resulting in a flavorful and juicy chicken. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can help, but the longer, the better!

Sriracha Ranch Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. I often serve it with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice. You might also consider coleslaw for a refreshing crunch or a fruit salad to contrast the spiciness. The options are endless, so choose what best suits your taste and the occasion!

Definitely! While Sriracha gives a unique flavor to this marinade, you can substitute it with any other hot sauce of your choice if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different sauces may have varying levels of heat and flavor profiles. Experiment to find the combination that you enjoy the most.

Conclusion

Sriracha Ranch Chicken is a standout dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavors. The combination of spicy and creamy elements makes it unforgettable. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home, bringing smiles and happy bellies all around!

Sriracha Ranch Chicken

Sriracha Ranch Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Sriracha Ranch Chicken combines creamy ranch with a spicy kick, delivering an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Juicy, flavorful chicken marinated to perfection makes this dish a must-try for tonight!
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 3 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2-3 Tbsp Sriracha
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp white sugar
  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, stir together the olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, Sriracha, salt, lemon juice, white vinegar, ground black pepper, and white sugar.
  2. Pound chicken breast to an even thickness.
  3. Place chicken in a gallon size ziplock bag, pour marinade over chicken and stir to coat with the marinade.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (all day).
  5. Preheat the grill for medium-high heat.
  6. Grill chicken for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, and the juices run clear.

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