Save to Pins A comforting, flavorful casserole featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in creamy ranch and cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners.
This dish became a family favorite the first time I made it on a busy weekday, and every bite delivers cheesy, ranch-infused comfort everyone always looks forward to.
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
- Prepare the Oven and Dish:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the Ranch Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Spread the Mixture:
- Evenly cover each chicken breast with the prepared ranch mixture.
- Add Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, covering the chicken completely.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with chives or parsley if desired and serve hot.
Save to Pins This meal brings everyone together around the table, and the leftovers are always a hit for lunch the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with steamed broccoli, a crisp green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete, comforting meal.
Variations
Try adding cooked bacon on top before baking or swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter twist on the creamy ranch layer.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
This recipe contains dairy and may include eggs depending on the ranch. Each serving is about 410 calories with 42 g protein and 5 g carbohydrates.
Save to Pins This simple bake is destined to be a weeknight staple. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy layers with every bite!
Questions & Answers
- → Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt works well as a lighter alternative, maintaining creaminess while adding a slight tang.
- → Is it possible to add bacon to this dish?
Absolutely, crumbled cooked bacon adds a smoky, salty layer when sprinkled on top before baking.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The cheese will be bubbly and golden as a visual cue.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving to preserve freshness.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed vegetables, green salads, or mashed potatoes complement the creamy, cheesy flavors nicely.