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Looking for a quick and delicious dinner option? This Cheesy Ranch Chicken recipe is the perfect solution! With a creamy, cheesy topping infused with the savory flavor of ranch, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to whip up this tasty meal.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Mayo (or a block of cream cheese): Provides a creamy base for the topping. You can choose between mayo for a tangier flavor or cream cheese for a richer texture.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced: Adds a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup cheese (shredded, any variety): Melts into the topping, making it deliciously gooey and cheesy. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works well.
- 1 packet of ranch flavoring: Infuses the topping with the distinctive, savory taste of ranch.
- Chicken breasts: The main protein of the dish. The number of breasts can be adjusted based on your serving needs.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the chicken, providing an even cooking process.
- Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayo (or a block of cream cheese), 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and 1 packet of ranch flavoring. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. This mixture will serve as the flavorful, cheesy topping for the chicken breasts.
- Step 3: Prepare Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Ensure that the chicken breasts are evenly spaced to allow for proper cooking.
- Step 4: Slather Mixture
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring they are well coated. This will create a delicious, creamy layer that will bake to perfection.
- Step 5: Bake
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Step 6: Serve
- Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, accompanied by your favorite sides. This recipe pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and asparagus for a complete meal.