Mississippi Mud Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Mississippi Mud Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make baked chicken dish that combines tangy ranch dressing, smoky barbecue sauce, and crispy fried onions for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers juicy chicken breasts topped with melted cheddar and a delightful crispy finish.
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
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and if you like, a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Step 3: Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Brush each breast generously with barbecue sauce, then spoon ranch dressing over the top of each one.
- Step 4: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken breasts.
- Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 6: Remove the dish from the oven and immediately top each chicken breast with a handful of crispy fried onions.
- Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Tips & Variations
- For extra smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder in the seasoning step.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese taste or try pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- If you prefer, substitute ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing for a different tang.
- Leftover crispy onions can be reserved to maintain their crunch by adding just before serving.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the chicken juicy and the cheese melted. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crispy onions soggy.
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 for a juicier, more flavorful dish. Adjust the baking time to about 30–35 minutes or until they reach 165°F internally.
What if I don’t have crispy fried onions?
If you don’t have store-bought crispy fried onions, you can make your own by thinly slicing onions, coating them lightly in flour, and frying until golden and crisp. Alternatively, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed fried shallots can provide a similar crunch.
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Mississippi Mud Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Mississippi Mud Chicken is a comforting, flavorful baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in barbecue sauce and ranch dressing, topped with melted cheddar cheese and crunchy fried onions. This hearty Southern-inspired meal delivers a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, smoky, and crispy textures in every bite, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika
Sauces & Toppings:
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Season Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and if desired, add garlic powder and smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish lightly to prevent sticking, then place the seasoned chicken breasts evenly spaced in the dish.
- Add Sauces: Brush each chicken breast with barbecue sauce; then spoon ranch dressing over each piece, ensuring they are well coated.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of each chicken breast.
- Bake: Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Crispy Onions: Remove the dish from the oven and immediately top each chicken breast with the crispy fried onions for a crunchy finish.
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences by adding more spices or herbs.
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to retain moisture.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce before brushing on the chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Keywords: Mississippi Mud Chicken, baked chicken breast recipe, barbecue chicken, ranch dressing chicken, cheesy chicken bake, crispy fried onions chicken
