4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake Recipe

Introduction

This 4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake is an easy and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it delivers a creamy, cheesy dish the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts evenly in a baking dish.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix with the sour cream until well blended.
4. Step 4: Spread the ranch and sour cream mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the coated chicken.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the ranch mixture.
• Try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy twist.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts so they cook evenly. If using frozen, allow extra baking time and check the internal temperature before serving.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a healthy substitute that will keep the creamy texture and add a slight tang.

4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 103 reviews

This 4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake is a simple, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts covered in a creamy ranch and sour cream mixture, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort but delivers a delicious, comforting meal.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Ranch Sauce

• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Topping

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken evenly.
2. Prepare chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in a baking dish, ensuring there is space between pieces for even cooking.
3. Make ranch sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix and sour cream thoroughly, creating a creamy, flavorful coating for the chicken.
4. Coat chicken: Spread the ranch and sour cream mixture evenly over each chicken breast, covering them completely for maximum flavor infusion.
5. Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the coated chicken breasts, which will melt and create a delicious crust during baking.
6. Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), indicating it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
7. Rest before serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender bites.

Notes

• You can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavor.
• To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the ranch mixture.
• Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts; always check internal temperature to ensure doneness.
• This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: ranch chicken, easy chicken bake, cheesy chicken bake, 4-ingredient chicken recipe, quick dinner, baked chicken breasts