Cheesy Ranch Chicken

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Introduction

This Cheesy Ranch Chicken is the ultimate comfort food creamy, savory, and packed with cheesy goodness. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Bonus: that cheesy ranch sauce doubles as a delicious dip or topping!

Ingredients

  • ½ cup mayonnaise (or a block of cream cheese)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite type)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Make the Ranch Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise (or cream cheese), minced garlic, shredded cheese, and ranch seasoning until well combined.
  3. Prepare Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread the ranch mixture generously over each one, covering the tops completely.
  4. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbly and golden on top.
  5. Serve: Dish it up with mashed potatoes and asparagus, or your favorite sides.

Variation

  1. Use Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack, gouda, provolone, or a sharp white cheddar. Each cheese brings a unique flavor profile pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while gouda gives a rich, smoky note.
  2. Cream Cheese Option: Using a block of cream cheese instead of mayo makes the sauce thicker, richer, and a bit tangier. It’s especially great if you want a more decadent, spreadable topping. Soften it before mixing for easier blending.
  3. Add Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions can be mixed into the ranch topping or sprinkled on after baking for extra texture and a flavor boost. Think loaded baked potato but on chicken!

Cooking Notes

  1. Check for Doneness: Chicken is safely cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or drying it out.
  2. Use Evenly Sized Chicken Breasts: If your chicken pieces are very thick or uneven, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
  3. Baking Dish Choice: A glass or ceramic baking dish works great here, but if using metal, keep an eye on the cheese browning metal pans tend to conduct heat faster and may crisp the cheese topping more quickly.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly, soaking up the cheesy ranch sauce like a dream. For added flavor, try mixing garlic or sour cream into the mash.
  2. Steamed or Roasted Veggies: Serve with asparagus, green beans, or broccoli for a colorful, healthy plate. Roasted veggies with olive oil and a pinch of garlic powder complement the creamy richness of the chicken.
  3. Low-Carb Option: For a lighter or keto-friendly option, pair with cauliflower mash or a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

Tips

  1. Let It Rest Before Serving: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat tender and flavorful.
  2. Double the Sauce for Dipping: Want extra for dipping veggies or drizzling over sides? Double the sauce mixture before baking, and reserve half to serve fresh on the side.
  3. Make It Ahead: You can mix the ranch topping and prep the chicken in advance. Store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready for an easy weeknight dinner.

Prep Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 420
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 880mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and stay extra juicy. Just keep in mind they may need a few extra minutes in the oven, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
  2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the ranch topping and coat the chicken ahead of time just cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed. It’s a great make-ahead dinner for busy nights.
  3. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
    You can freeze it after baking. Let the chicken cool completely, wrap each piece in foil or store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results. Note: The texture of the cheese sauce may change slightly after freezing.
  4. Can I make this without ranch seasoning?
    If you’re out of ranch packets or prefer a homemade blend, mix together dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. It won’t be identical, but it’s a great alternative with a fresh flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ranch Chicken is a no-fuss, full-flavor dinner that brings creamy, savory comfort to the table in under an hour. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a go-to recipe that’s endlessly adaptable and always satisfying. Try it with your favorite cheese, play around with add-ins, and make it your own!

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Cheesy Ranch Chicken

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

This Cheesy Ranch Chicken is the ultimate comfort food creamy, savory, and packed with cheesy goodness. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Bonus: that cheesy ranch sauce doubles as a delicious dip or topping!

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (or a block of cream cheese)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite type)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Make the Ranch Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise (or cream cheese), minced garlic, shredded cheese, and ranch seasoning until well combined.
  • Prepare Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread the ranch mixture generously over each one, covering the tops completely.
  • Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbly and golden on top.
  • Serve: Dish it up with mashed potatoes and asparagus, or your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Swap out the chicken for pork chops or use the cheesy ranch sauce as a dip with veggies or chips.
  • Want a little crunch? Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 880mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: cheesy chicken, ranch chicken, easy chicken bake, creamy chicken

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