Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake

Featured in: Quick Family Favorites

This comforting bake combines tender chicken breasts coated in a creamy ranch mixture with sharp cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it balances rich flavors with simple prep. Ideal for busy weeknights, it offers a satisfying meal with savory herbs and spices. Optional fresh chives add a vibrant touch, and variations include adding crumbled bacon or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. Serve warm with vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete dinner.

Updated on Sun, 09 Nov 2025 13:46:00 GMT
Juicy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake topped with golden cheese and fresh herbs.  Save
Juicy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake topped with golden cheese and fresh herbs. | suggestionsforever.com

A comforting, flavorful casserole featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in creamy ranch and cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners.

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

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
Step 2:
Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3:
In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Step 4:
Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
Step 5:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, covering evenly.
Step 6:
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7:
Garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Comforting Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake finished with bubbly cheese and zesty ranch flavor.  Save
Comforting Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake finished with bubbly cheese and zesty ranch flavor. | suggestionsforever.com

Savory Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake featuring tender chicken smothered in creamy cheddar goodness. Save
Savory Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake featuring tender chicken smothered in creamy cheddar goodness. | suggestionsforever.com

Serve with steamed vegetables, a green salad, or mashed potatoes.

Recipe Help & FAQs

What cut of chicken is ideal for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best as they cook evenly and stay juicy under the creamy topping.

Can I use different cheese types here?

Sharp cheddar works wonderfully for its melty texture and flavor, but feel free to try Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste.

How can I ensure the chicken stays moist?

Coating breasts in the ranch mixture before baking helps lock in moisture, preventing dryness during cooking.

Are there suitable substitutes for sour cream in the mixture?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative that maintains creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

What sides complement this cheesy chicken bake?

Steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes pair well to balance the rich main dish.

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake

Juicy chicken breasts coated in ranch and cheddar, baked to golden perfection for a comforting meal.

Prep Time
10 mins
Time to Cook
30 mins
Overall Time
40 mins
Created by Suggestions Forever Hannah Lewis


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Serving Count

Diet Details No Gluten, Low Carb

Ingredient List

Chicken

01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)

Ranch Mixture

01 1/2 cup ranch dressing (120 ml)
02 1/4 cup sour cream (60 g)
03 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
05 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Topping

01 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (115 g)
02 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)

Directions

Step 01

Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 02

Arrange Chicken: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 03

Combine Ranch Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

Step 04

Coat Chicken: Spread the ranch mixture uniformly over the chicken breasts.

Step 05

Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the coated chicken.

Step 06

Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 07

Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped chives or parsley if desired and serve hot.

Needed Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Allergy Notice

Review each ingredient to check for allergens. Ask a healthcare specialist if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy from cheese, sour cream, and ranch dressing; ranch dressing may contain eggs and other allergens.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Details shown are for reference. Always check with your healthcare provider for advice.
  • Calories: 410
  • Fats: 24 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Proteins: 42 g