Save to Pinterest A comforting flavorful casserole featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in creamy ranch and cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners.
I first made this Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake when my family was craving something warm and satisfying. The kitchen smelled incredible as it baked and everyone went back for seconds.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange Chicken:
- Place chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Ranch Mixture:
- Mix ranch dressing sour cream garlic powder onion powder and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Spread Mixture:
- Evenly spread ranch mixture over chicken breasts.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top covering evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)) and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping sprinkle cheese on top and it always turns into a shared meal with lots of laughter around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed vegetables a crisp green salad or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Customization Ideas
For extra flavor add cooked crumbled bacon before baking or substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer.
Nutrition
Each serving contains about 410 calories 24 g total fat 5 g carbohydrates and 42 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This hearty chicken bake makes weeknight dinners easier and is guaranteed to bring smiles to your table.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
Greek yogurt mixed with garlic and onion powder can be a creamy alternative, adding tangy flavor while keeping the dish moist.
- → 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.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the chicken with the ranch mixture and cheese, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- → What herbs work best as topping?
Fresh chopped chives or parsley add a light, herbaceous note and a burst of color to the finished dish.
- → How to make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free certified ranch dressing and verify all other ingredients to maintain a gluten-free meal.
- → Can I add more protein or vegetables?
Adding cooked crumbled bacon or serving alongside steamed vegetables can boost flavor and nutrition without altering cooking time significantly.