Satisfy your taste buds with Ranch Cream Cheese Chicken, a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken breasts topped with a rich ranch cream cheese mixture and melted cheddar cheese makes for an irresistible meal.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown on both sides for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning together until smooth and well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Herb Additions: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the cream cheese for extra flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Boost: Top the chicken with steamed broccoli or spinach before adding the cheese for added nutrition.
- Different Cheese: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave until hot.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking for even results. - Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and cream cheese mixture in advance, then bake when ready to serve. - What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. - Can I use a different seasoning mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seasoning blends that you enjoy. - What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can create a homemade ranch seasoning blend with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. - How can I tell if the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). - Can I grill this chicken instead?
Yes, you can grill the chicken and add the cream cheese and cheese toppings towards the end of cooking. - What if I want to use chicken thighs?
Chicken thighs work well too; just adjust the cooking time if they are thicker. - How can I make it lower in fat?
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese to cut down on calories. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Conclusion
Ranch Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort to your table. With its creamy topping and cheesy goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven for a delightful dining experience!
PrintRanch Cream Cheese Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
Enjoy a delightful and creamy Ranch Cream Cheese Chicken dish! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with a smooth ranch-flavored cream cheese and melted cheddar cheese, creating a deliciously comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Brown the chicken breasts on both sides for 3-4 minutes each, then remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the ranch seasoning until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes