why make this recipe
This recipe is fast, simple, and fills the table with tasty food. It needs only four common ingredients and little work. It cooks in the oven and gives moist chicken with rich ranch flavor. If you want simple meal ideas and basic ranch notes, see these basic ranch chicken tips.
introduction
This dish is for busy days. You mix ranch and sour cream, spread on chicken, add cheese, and bake. It is easy to make and kids like it. You do not need many tools or long prep.
how to make 4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake
Preheat the oven, mix the ranch with sour cream, and spread over chicken. Top with cheese and bake until done. If you like slow cooker ideas, try the ranch chicken crock pot method for another hands-off version.
Ingredients :
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions :
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix ranch dressing and sour cream.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
how to serve 4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake
Slice the chicken and serve over rice, pasta, or a green salad. Add steamed veggies or roasted potatoes on the side. For a different cut or idea, you might like this ranch chicken thighs idea.
how to store 4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake
Cool the chicken to room temperature before storing. Put in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make 4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake
- Pat chicken dry so the ranch mix sticks well.
- Use full-fat sour cream for richer taste.
- Check the chicken with a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest so juices stay inside the meat.
variation (if any)
- Add sliced mushrooms or diced bell pepper under the cheese for more veg.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a milder cheese.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A: Yes, but increase baking time and check the temperature near the bone.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can mix the ranch and sour cream ahead and keep in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready.
Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Yes. Slice and store with sides in meal containers for easy lunches.
Q: Can I use low-fat cheese?
A: Yes, but the dish will be less creamy.
Q: What sides pair well?
A: Rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad work well.
Conclusion
This 4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake gives a quick, tasty dinner with little work. For more simple bakes with similar ease and flavor, try the 4-Ingredient Chicken and Pesto Bake (Easy recipe) for a herby twist. If you like garlic and potatoes with your chicken, see the Easy & Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes (One Pan). For more easy chicken bake ideas and recipes, visit Easy Chicken Bake Dinner Recipes • The Pinning Mama.
4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pat dry before using.
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream Use full-fat for richer taste.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix ranch dressing and sour cream.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Cooking
- Bake for 25 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
