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 is one of those meals I reach for whenever we need something hearty but fast. The combination of ranch and cheddar always brings everyone to the table with big smiles.
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 and Prepare:
- 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.
- Make Ranch Mixture:
- In a small bowl mix together the ranch dressing sour cream garlic powder onion powder and black pepper.
- Spread Over Chicken:
- 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 Everyone in our family asks for seconds of this cheesy chicken bake. My kids love it most when I toss a little extra cheddar on top right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with steamed vegetables a fresh green salad or classic mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Make It Lighter
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten things up without losing that creamy texture.
Allergen and Nutrition Notes
This dish contains dairy (cheese sour cream ranch dressing) and may contain eggs if present in your ranch dressing. Each serving is approximately 410 calories with 24 g fat 5 g carbohydrates and 42 g protein.
Save This cheddar ranch chicken bake guarantees comfort and flavor with minimal effort. Try it once and it might just enter your weeknight rotation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to ensure chicken stays moist?
Coating the chicken breasts with a creamy ranch and sour cream mixture helps to retain moisture during baking, ensuring juicy results.
- → Can I use other cheeses in place of cheddar?
Yes, sharp cheeses like Monterrey Jack or mozzarella work well and melt nicely, offering different flavor profiles.
- → 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 bubbly and golden.
- → Are there any simple variations to enhance flavor?
Add cooked, crumbled bacon on top before baking or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives after baking for added flavor.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, if gluten-free ranch dressing is used, the dish remains gluten-free and safe for those with sensitivities.
- → What sides pair well with this chicken bake?
Steamed vegetables, green salads, or creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors nicely.