Save Looking for a quick, family-friendly meal that delivers on flavor without the cleanup hassle? This Ranch Chicken & Broccoli Sheet Pan Melt is the perfect solution. Juicy chicken breasts and tender broccoli florets are tossed in a tangy ranch seasoning and roasted to perfection, then finished with a layer of bubbling cheddar cheese that makes every bite irresistible.
Save This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet-style dinner in just 35 minutes. By roasting the chicken and broccoli together, the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring a juicy result every time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
- 4 cups (about 300 g) broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1½ cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken breasts and broccoli florets with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, pepper, and salt until well coated.
- Step 3
- Arrange chicken breasts on one side of the prepared sheet pan. Spread broccoli florets on the other side, ensuring an even layer for both.
- Step 4
- Roast in the oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through and broccoli is crisp-tender.
- Step 5
- Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over both the chicken and broccoli.
- Step 6
- Return the pan to the oven and broil on high for 2–4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden spots.
- Step 7
- Let rest for 2 minutes, then serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure even cooking, try to use chicken breasts that are similar in size. If some are much thicker, you can gently pound them to a uniform thickness before seasoning. Using parchment paper is highly recommended to prevent the cheese from sticking to the pan.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily switch up the flavor profile by substituting cheddar with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack. For extra color and texture, feel free to add sliced red onions or bell peppers to the mix before roasting.
Serviervorschläge
For a bright finish, add a fresh squeeze of lemon over the chicken and broccoli just before serving. This dish pairs excellently with a crisp green salad or roasted potatoes for those looking for a heartier meal.
Save Enjoy this easy, cheesy, and savory meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Kitchen Help
- → Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Frozen broccoli works but may become softer during roasting. Thaw completely and pat dry before tossing with seasonings to prevent excess moisture on the sheet pan. Reduce initial roasting time by 3-4 minutes.
- → What temperature should the chicken reach?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast to check.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for the cheddar topping. Use a dairy-free ranch seasoning blend made with nutritional yeast, herbs, and spices instead of traditional mix.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, though the cheese texture works best with oven reheating.
- → Can I use other vegetables?
Cauliflower florets, bell pepper strips, or sliced zucchini work well as substitutions or additions. Adjust roasting time as needed—softer vegetables like zucchini may need less time while harder vegetables like cauliflower may need a few extra minutes.
- → What goes well with this dish?
Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or rice for added carbohydrates. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the rich cheese. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also complement the tangy ranch flavors nicely.