Save 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 tried this recipe when searching for a quick gluten-free dinner solution and it instantly became a family favorite 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
- Preheat 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 Mixture:
- 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 & Serve:
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save This recipe is a huge hit at our family dinners and always disappears quickly especially when served with steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery mashed potatoes for a hearty meal everyone will love.
Make It Lighter
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and boost protein while keeping a creamy tangy flavor.
Allergen & Nutritional Info
This dish contains dairy and may contain eggs depending on your ranch dressing. Calories per serving: 410 Protein: 42 g Carbohydrates: 5 g Total Fat: 24 g. Always check labels for allergens and gluten if sensitive.
Save This Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake is sure to become your new go-to comfort food. Enjoy every cheesy savory bite with your loved ones.
Kitchen Help
- → Can I use different cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used for a milder, creamy texture while retaining gooeyness.
- → Is it necessary to use ranch dressing in the mixture?
The ranch dressing provides a distinct creamy and herby flavor, but a blend of sour cream and herbs can work as a substitute.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
- → Can I add bacon to this dish?
Yes, adding cooked crumbled bacon before baking enhances the flavor with smoky, savory notes.
- → What side dishes pair well with this bake?
Steamed vegetables, green salads, or mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors and create a balanced meal.