why make this recipe
Simple Baked Ranch Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the creamy goodness of ranch and cheesy flavors with juicy chicken breasts. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends and family. The best part? It requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients, making it accessible for everyone, even beginner cooks.
how to make Simple Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients :
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until well combined.
- Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
how to serve Simple Baked Ranch Chicken
You can serve Simple Baked Ranch Chicken with various sides. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or pasta. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra ranch dressing on top for added flavor!
how to store Simple Baked Ranch Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven or microwave until warm. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best texture and flavor.
tips to make Simple Baked Ranch Chicken
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in the ranch seasoning for a few hours or overnight.
- Use low-fat mayonnaise and sour cream for a lighter version of this dish.
- Feel free to add extra cheese or even some diced vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli, to the ranch mixture for variety.
variation
You can customize this dish by using different seasonings or cheese. Try using Italian seasoning instead of ranch for a different flavor profile. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
2. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese alternatives to make this dish dairy-free.
3. How can I tell when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is a great tool to check this.
Enjoy making and sharing this simple and tasty recipe with your loved ones!