Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? Say hello to Cheesy Ranch Parmesan Chicken! This mouthwatering recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy ranch dressing and a decadent blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, creating an irresistible flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you won’t want to miss out on this cheesy delight—read on to discover how to whip up this culinary masterpiece!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning and coating adhere better.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage.
- Pour the ranch dressing into a shallow dish and dip each chicken breast, coating it completely on both sides with a thick layer of dressing.
- In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Transfer the ranch-coated chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece.
- Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, pressing gently to help the cheese adhere.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can marinate the chicken in ranch dressing for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Choose the Right Cheese: While cheddar and Parmesan are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Make sure to leave space between the chicken breasts in the baking dish. This allows for even cooking and helps the cheese to melt perfectly.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider garnishing your finished dish with fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving.
- Pair it Right: Serve your Cheesy Ranch Parmesan Chicken with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 518kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 130mg
