Cheesy Ranch Chicken is a quick and comforting dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with creamy ranch seasoning and a blanket of melted cheese. It’s the perfect dinner option when you want a flavorful meal with minimal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Requires just a few pantry staples and minimal effort.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s loved by kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Pair it with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
- Flavorful and Creamy: Ranch seasoning and melted cheese create a rich and savory dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Cream cheese, softened
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the ranch topping: In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese and ranch seasoning until well combined.
- Assemble the dish: Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a flavor variation.
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a keto-friendly meal.
- Bacon Ranch Chicken: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the chicken before baking for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.
2. Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
No, baking uncovered allows the cheese to melt and brown slightly for a perfect texture.
3. Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Absolutely! Homemade ranch seasoning works great and lets you control the flavors.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
5. What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, rice, or a fresh salad pair perfectly.
6. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature without overcooking.
7. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works, but the dish may be slightly less creamy.
8. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your ranch seasoning is gluten-free, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
9. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Yes, add veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to make it a one-pan meal.
10. Can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ranch Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With its creamy ranch topping and gooey melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and watch it disappear in no time!
PrintCheesy Ranch Chicken
This Cheesy Ranch Chicken combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with the savory flavors of ranch seasoning and melted cheese. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 (1-ounce) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Parmesan cheese, and dry ranch seasoning mix. Mix until well combined.
- Coat Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Dip each chicken breast into the ranch dressing, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Add Cheese Topping: Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the cheese and ranch seasoning mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Ranch Chicken with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Variations: For a different flavor profile, try using different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.