Easy Ranch Chicken Dinner Recipe for Weeknights (Print Version)
Quick Ranch chicken recipe for a flavorful weeknight meal. Tender chicken baked with creamy ranch seasoning. Family-friendly and simple to prepare.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Tender Chicken Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
→ Creamy Ranch Embrace
02 -
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
03 -
1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
04 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Flavor Boosters & Moisture
05 -
1 tbsp olive oil
06 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
07 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
08 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
09 -
1/2 tsp salt
10 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
11 -
1/4 cup chicken broth
→ Fresh Garnish
12 -
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
13 -
2 lemon wedges, for serving
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat dry 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts) thoroughly with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear on your Easy Ranch Chicken Recipe.
02 -
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the prepared chicken breasts.
03 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This creates a delicious crust for your Easy Ranch Chicken Recipe.
04 -
While the chicken sears, in a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt and 1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix until smooth. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until well combined.
05 -
Pour 1/4 cup chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken. Spoon the ranch-cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
06 -
Remove the skillet from the oven. Let the Easy Ranch Chicken Recipe rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, and serve immediately with 2 lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
# Notes:
01 -
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or a dash of hot sauce to the ranch topping.
02 -
This chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
04 -
If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even 1-inch thickness for more consistent cooking.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
large mixing bowl
03 -
measuring cups and spoons
04 -
whisk or spoon
05 -
cutting board
06 -
sharp knife
07 -
meat thermometer
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 466 kcal
Total Fat: 19 g
Total Carbohydrate: 6 g
Protein: 60 g