Save A comforting flavorful casserole featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in creamy ranch and cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners.
This dish was a hit the first time I made it for my family. The ranch and cheddar combination quickly became a go-to for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
- Ranch Mixture: 1/2 cup (120 ml) ranch dressing 1/4 cup (60 g) sour cream 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Topping: 1 cup (115 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange Chicken:
- Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix Ranch:
- In a small bowl mix together the ranch dressing sour cream garlic powder onion powder and black pepper.
- Spread Mixture:
- Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top covering evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save My kids always ask for seconds when I serve this chicken bake and it disappears fast around our dinner table.
Serving Suggestions
Great with steamed vegetables a crisp green salad or classic mashed potatoes for a full meal.
Ingredient Swaps
Greek yogurt can substitute in for sour cream if you want to lighten up the casserole without sacrificing creaminess.
Allergy Info
This recipe is gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free ranch dressing and watch all labels. Contains dairy and may contain eggs.
Save Enjoy this cheesy ranch chicken bake for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. It's sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook evenly and absorb the creamy ranch mixture well.
- → Can I substitute the ranch dressing with something else?
Yes, mixing sour cream or Greek yogurt with garlic and onion powder can be a tasty alternative to ranch dressing.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Using certified gluten-free ranch dressing ensures the dish remains gluten-free.
- → What sides complement this bake well?
Steamed vegetables, green salad, or mashed potatoes are excellent accompaniments to balance flavors and textures.
- → Can I add extra toppings before baking?
Adding crumbled cooked bacon before baking adds a smoky flavor and enhances richness.