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baked ranch chicken 614831041

Golden Baked Ranch Chicken with Cheddar Mozzarella Topping

Juicy chicken breasts get a creamy ranch and cheese blanket, then bake until golden. A simple weeknight dinner that's loaded with flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 358
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 2 whole large boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 8 ounces each
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground preferred
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning dried herb blend
For the creamy topping
  • 1/2 cup sour cream plain Greek yogurt works too
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing store-bought or homemade
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese freshly shredded for best melt
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds rich flavor
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  3. In a medium bowl, stir together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), ranch dressing, minced garlic, mozzarella, and cheddar until thoroughly combined.
Baking
  1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the creamy cheese mixture on top and spread it evenly over each breast, covering them completely.
  2. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (75°C).
  3. Turn the oven to broil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes longer, watching carefully, until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Serving
  1. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot alongside mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad.

Nutrition

Calories: 358kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 33gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 122mgSodium: 967mgSugar: 2g

Notes

Use full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture; low-fat versions can separate.
Shred cheese from a block instead of buying pre-shredded, which often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
For a more intense ranch flavor, marinate the chicken in 1/4 cup ranch dressing for 2 to 4 hours before seasoning and baking.
Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture.
To make this meal gluten-free, check that your ranch dressing is certified gluten-free.
Serve with California-inspired sides like grilled asparagus, a Hass avocado salad, or sourdough bread with olive oil.
Don't skip the broil step - that golden, bubbly cheese topping is the best part.

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