Save Experience a hassle-free dinner with this Ranch Chicken & Broccoli Sheet Pan Melt. Juicy chicken breasts and tender broccoli florets are tossed in a tangy ranch seasoning, roasted until perfect, and then finished with a blanket of bubbling, sharp cheddar cheese. It is a quick, family-friendly meal that delivers comfort and flavor in just 35 minutes.
Save This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The high-heat roasting ensures the broccoli stays crisp-tender while the chicken remains succulent under its cheesy topping.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
- Vegetables: 4 cups (about 300 g) broccoli florets
- Seasonings & Oils: 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, ¼ tsp kosher salt
- Cheese: 1½ cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- Step 2: Seasoning
- 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
- 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
- Roast in the oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through and broccoli is crisp-tender.
- Step 5: Add Cheese
- Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over both the chicken and broccoli.
- Step 6: Broil
- 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: Rest and Serve
- Let rest for 2 minutes, then serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Stellen Sie sicher, dass Ihre Ranch-Gewürzmischung glutenfrei ist, falls dies für Ihre Ernährung wichtig ist. Ein großer Bogen Backpapier verhindert das Anhaften des Käses am Blech und erleichtert die Reinigung erheblich.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Ersetzen Sie den Cheddar durch Monterey Jack, Mozzarella oder eine Mischung für unterschiedliche Geschmacksprofile. Für mehr Vielfalt können Sie auch in Scheiben geschnittene rote Zwiebeln oder Paprika hinzufügen.
Serviervorschläge
Für ein besonders frisches Aroma können Sie kurz vor dem Servieren etwas Zitronensaft über das Gericht träufeln. Servieren Sie das Ganze mit einem knackigen grünen Salat oder gerösteten Kartoffeln für eine sättigendere Mahlzeit.
Save Enjoy this effortless, cheesy sheet pan dinner that brings together bold ranch flavors and wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Kitchen Q&A
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully and may stay juicier longer. Adjust cooking time by 3-5 minutes since thighs take slightly longer to cook through than breasts.
- → What temperature should the chicken reach?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part. This ensures safe consumption while keeping the meat tender.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
You can season the chicken and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply arrange on the sheet pan and roast as directed.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
- → Can I use fresh broccoli instead of florets?
Absolutely. Cut fresh broccoli heads into uniform florets, about 1-2 inches in size, so they cook evenly. Larger pieces may need an extra 2-3 minutes in the oven.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
Sliced bell peppers, red onion wedges, cauliflower florets, or zucchini chunks all work well. Add harder vegetables like carrots earlier or cut them smaller to ensure even cooking.