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 made this Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake on a busy Wednesday night and it quickly became a family favorite. The kids especially love the gooey cheese on top and it is fast to prepare so I make it often when time is short.
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
- Prep 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.
- Mix Ranch Mixture:
- In a small bowl mix together ranch dressing sour cream garlic powder onion powder and black pepper.
- Spread Mixture:
- Evenly spread the ranch mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top covering evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 2530 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C) and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save This casserole always brings us together at the dinner table even on rushed nights. I remember my youngest grabbing the first cheesy serving and declaring it the best chicken ever.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish mixing bowl measuring cups and spoons oven
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese sour cream ranch dressing). Ranch dressing may contain eggs and other allergens—check labels if sensitive. Glutenfree if all ingredients are certified glutenfree.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 410 Total Fat: 24 g Carbohydrates: 5 g Protein: 42 g
Save The Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake is sure to become a repeat request for casual family meals. Enjoy the rich flavors and simple preparation that keeps everyone happy.
Kitchen Q&A
- → What type of chicken works best for this bake?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and absorbing flavors from the creamy ranch mixture.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used for a milder taste.
- → Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Replacing ranch and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives works, though flavors and texture may vary slightly.
- → How can I add more flavor to this dish?
Adding cooked, crumbled bacon on top before baking adds smoky richness, enhancing the overall taste.
- → What sides complement this chicken bake?
Steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes balance the richness nicely.