Pin It A comforting, flavorful casserole featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in creamy ranch and cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners.
I remember making this Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake after a long day at work, hoping for something hearty but fuss-free. My family loved how juicy the chicken turned out and the way the melted cheddar made everything extra comforting.
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 Oven and Dish:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix Ranch Mixture:
- Combine ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Coat Chicken:
- Spread ranch mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over chicken, covering evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 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.
Pin It 
My kids always raced to the dinner table for this casserole, especially after they helped sprinkle the cheddar on top. It quickly became a cozy family tradition on chilly nights.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this chicken bake with steamed vegetables, a green salad, or mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy. Ranch dressing may contain eggs and other potential allergens. Confirm ingredients are gluten-free if sensitive.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, mixing bowl, measuring cups, measuring spoons, oven
Pin It 
Enjoy this Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake with your favorite sides. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best to absorb flavors and cook evenly in the bake.
- → Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, sharp or mild cheddar offers great flavor, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used for a milder taste.
- → How can I make the dish gluten-free?
Ensure the ranch dressing is certified gluten-free and avoid any add-ins containing gluten.
- → Is it possible to add more herbs?
Fresh chives or parsley are ideal for garnish, but adding rosemary or thyme before baking can elevate the dish.
- → What are good side dishes to serve with this bake?
Steamed vegetables, green salads, or creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich, creamy flavors well.