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Ranch Chicken Sandwiches: The Ultimate Recipe and Guide

Crispy, juicy ranch chicken sandwiches with a flavorful buttermilk marinade, seasoned coating, and creamy ranch mayo. A quick and easy meal that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch dressing mix
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for cooking
  • 4 hamburger buns, split
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup prepared ranch dressing (bottled)
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • Lettuce leaves, for topping
  • Tomato slices, for topping (optional)
  • Red onion slices, for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and dry ranch dressing mix. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the buttermilk mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. Prepare the Dry Coating: In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk together.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat both sides completely.
  4. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat (about 1/4 inch deep). The oil is ready when a small piece of flour sizzles gently when dropped into it.
  5. Cook the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Drain the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  7. Prepare the Ranch Mayo: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and prepared ranch dressing.
  8. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread the ranch mayonnaise mixture evenly on both the top and bottom halves of each hamburger bun. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each bun. Top the cheese with a piece of the cooked ranch chicken. Add lettuce leaves, tomato slices (if using), and red onion slices (if using) on top of the chicken. Place the top half of the bun on top of the toppings.
  9. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or use a spicy ranch dressing.
  • Cheese variations: Use your favorite cheese! Pepper jack, provolone, or even a creamy Swiss would be delicious.
  • Bun options: Brioche buns, pretzel buns, or even toasted sourdough would be great alternatives to traditional hamburger buns.
  • Air Fryer Option: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the coated chicken with cooking spray and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden brown.
  • Make it a wrap: Instead of buns, use large tortillas to make Ranch Chicken Wraps. Add some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra ranch dressing for a complete meal.
  • Add Bacon: Everything is better with bacon! Add a few slices of cooked bacon to your sandwich for extra flavor and crunch.
  • Make it a salad: Slice the cooked chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad toppings and ranch dressing.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: These sandwiches are great for meal prepping! Cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
  • Grilling Option: You can also grill the chicken instead of frying it. Marinate the chicken as directed, then grill over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
  • Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.