Creamy Ranch Chicken is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that combines the richness of sour cream, the savory taste of ranch seasoning, and the creamy texture of melted cheeses. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, offering both comfort and flavor with minimal effort. The chicken breasts come out tender and juicy, coated in a creamy, cheesy ranch sauce that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and cover them with the ranch mixture.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms into the dish for added nutrition and flavor. You can layer them under the chicken before baking.
- Spicy Version: For a spicy twist, add some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the ranch mixture.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses for varied flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken with the ranch mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just bake as directed.
- Can I use light sour cream or reduced-fat cheese? Yes, you can substitute with light sour cream or reduced-fat cheese to make the dish a bit lighter without sacrificing too much flavor.
- Can I add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping? Yes, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of the shredded cheddar cheese before baking to add a crispy, golden crust.
- What can I serve with this dish? Creamy Ranch Chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
- Can I use homemade ranch seasoning instead of a packet? Yes, you can use your homemade ranch seasoning blend. A mix of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt would work perfectly.
- How do I know when the chicken is done? The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, you can freeze the baked chicken. Allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
- Can I add bacon to this dish? Absolutely! Crumbled bacon would be a delicious addition. You can sprinkle it over the top just before baking or mix it into the ranch sauce.
- What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with another hard cheese like Asiago or Pecorino Romano. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Conclusion
Creamy Ranch Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that combines all the comforting flavors of ranch, cheese, and tender chicken. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a family or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds!
PrintCreamy Ranch Chicken
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Ranch Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy ranch seasoning mixture and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and cover them with the ranch mixture.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can add a side of steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes to complete the meal.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes