Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake

Featured in: Comfort Food Cravings

This dish features juicy chicken breasts coated with a creamy blend of ranch dressing, sour cream, and spices, then topped generously with sharp cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it delivers rich flavors and comforting textures ideal for busy weeknights. Optional fresh herbs add a bright finish, and variations include adding crispy bacon or using Greek yogurt for a lighter touch.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 09:42:00 GMT
Juicy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs.  Save
Juicy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs. | toastytongs.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.
Golden-brown Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake with creamy ranch sauce, perfect for dinner.  Save
Golden-brown Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake with creamy ranch sauce, perfect for dinner. | toastytongs.com

Comforting Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake featuring succulent chicken and savory cheddar blend. Save
Comforting Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake featuring succulent chicken and savory cheddar blend. | toastytongs.com

Recipe FAQ

What temperature is best for baking this dish?

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and the cheese melts to a golden finish.

Can I use a different cheese?

Sharp cheddar gives a classic flavor, but you can substitute with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder cheese topping.

Is it possible to prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble the dish in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake right before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

What can I serve alongside this chicken bake?

Steamed vegetables, green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes complement the dish nicely, balancing flavors and textures.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure the ranch dressing used is certified gluten-free and avoid any add-ins containing gluten to keep it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake

Tender chicken baked with ranch seasoning and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
30 min
Complete duration
40 min
Created By Daniel Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Dietary considerations No Gluten, Low-Carbohydrate

Components

Chicken

01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)

Ranch Mixture

01 1/2 cup ranch dressing
02 1/4 cup sour cream
03 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
05 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

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

Directions

Phase 01

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

Phase 02

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

Phase 03

Combine ranch mixture: In a small bowl, blend ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.

Phase 04

Apply ranch mixture: Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.

Phase 05

Add cheese topping: Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the coated chicken.

Phase 06

Bake until cooked: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and cheese is golden and bubbly.

Phase 07

Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with chopped chives or parsley. Serve immediately.

Tools needed

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

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult with a healthcare professional if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream, ranch dressing) and may contain eggs in ranch dressing. Check labels for allergens.

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are approximate guidelines only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 410
  • Fats: 24 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Proteins: 42 g