Creamy Ranch Chicken Bake
A quick and indulgent weeknight dinner featuring chicken breasts coated in a creamy Ranch mixture and topped with melted cheese, ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby, or a Mexican blend)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened for easier mixing) Use reduced-fat cream cheese if desired.
- 1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch powder (or equivalent ranch seasoning)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and place them in a single layer in a greased baking dish. (Optional: season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.)
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the Ranch seasoning packet until smooth and evenly combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tops of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese evenly over the cream-coated chicken.
Cooking
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Let the bake rest 3–5 minutes before serving to keep juices locked in.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, try a dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheese. Best served with sides like steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or garlic mashed potatoes.