Looking for an easy baked ranch chicken recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort? This simple weeknight dinner combines tender chicken breasts with creamy ranch seasoning and melted cheddar cheese for a meal your whole family will request on repeat.
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Why This Ranch Chicken Recipe Works
This baked ranch chicken is perfect for busy weeknights. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in 35 minutes. The combination of Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning keeps the chicken incredibly moist while delivering that classic tangy ranch flavor everyone loves.
What makes this recipe special:
- Quick prep with minimal cleanup
- Low-carb and high-protein
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Perfectly juicy every time
Ingredients for Baked Ranch Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
How to Make Baked Ranch Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ranch Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat each piece thoroughly with the ranch mixture, ensuring every side is covered. This creamy coating locks in moisture and infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
Step 3: Bake with Cheese
Transfer the coated chicken to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging in a single layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Optional Broil for Crispy Top
For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Ranch Chicken
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for food safety
- Pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking
- Don’t skip the resting time – it keeps the juices locked in
- Make it spicy by adding cayenne pepper to the ranch mixture
- Meal prep friendly – doubles easily and freezes well for up to 3 months
What to Serve with Baked Ranch Chicken
This ranch seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts)
- Fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice
- Steamed green beans with butter
- Crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices
Recipe Variations
Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the mixture
Herb Ranch Chicken: Mix in fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley
Low-Fat Version: Use low-fat Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheese
Different Proteins: Try this method with chicken thighs for richer flavor
Mexican Ranch Chicken: Add taco seasoning and top with jalapeños
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover baked ranch chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave until heated through. Oven reheating keeps the chicken more moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and add even more flavor. They may need 5-10 extra minutes of cooking time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most ranch seasoning mixes are gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure. This baked ranch chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free when using a certified mix.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt and use plant-based cheese for a dairy-free ranch chicken dinner.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. The juices should run clear when pierced.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Coat the chicken in the ranch mixture up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add cheese and bake when ready to cook.
Why This Baked Ranch Chicken Recipe Will Become Your Favorite
This easy baked ranch chicken delivers on every level – it’s quick, delicious, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a casual dinner party, this ranch chicken recipe never disappoints. The creamy ranch coating keeps the chicken tender and juicy, while the melted cheddar adds that irresistible cheesy finish.
Ready in just 35 minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have, this is the kind of reliable recipe that saves busy weeknights. Try this baked ranch chicken tonight and discover why it’s destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ranch seasoning mix, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add chicken breasts to the bowl and coat thoroughly on all sides with the ranch mixture. This coating locks in moisture and infuses rich flavor.
- Transfer the coated chicken to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.