Baked Ranch Chicken: Simple, Flavorful Weeknight Dinner (Print Version)

Whip up this easy Baked Ranch Chicken for a weeknight win! Tender chicken, zesty ranch, and minimal fuss. My personal recipe, complete with kitchen mishaps.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Contains Dairy, Gluten-Free Option

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken & Dairy Base

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat for best results)
03 - 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended)

→ Flavor Powerhouses

04 - 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/2 tsp onion powder

→ Finishing Touches

07 - 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, let's get that oven warmed up to 375°F (190°C). While it's preheating, grab your chicken. I usually pat mine dry with a paper towel – it really helps with browning, honestly. You can leave them whole if they're not too thick, or slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook more evenly and quicker, which is a lifesaver on busy nights. Lay them out in a single layer in a baking dish. I usually go for a 9x13, but whatever fits your chicken without crowding works! Just make sure there's enough room for that glorious sauce.
02 - Now for the good stuff! In a medium bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, that magical ranch seasoning packet, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Grab a whisk and go to town! You want this super smooth, no lumps of cream cheese, hon. I remember one time I didn't soften my cream cheese enough, and it was a lumpy mess. Lesson learned: let it sit out for a bit! It should be a pourable, creamy consistency. You'll smell that familiar ranch aroma starting to waft up, and trust me, it's a good sign for your chicken.
03 - Once your sauce is velvety smooth, pour it right over those chicken pieces in the baking dish. Don't be shy! Use a spoon or a spatula to make sure every single piece of chicken is completely coated. We want maximum flavor here, so no naked chicken bits! I always try to get some of the sauce tucked under the edges too, just to ensure every bite of this dish is juicy and flavorful. This is where the magic really starts to happen, transforming plain chicken into something special.
04 - Pop that baking dish into your preheated oven. Now, the waiting game begins! Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of your chicken, so keep an eye on it. You're looking for the chicken to be cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the sauce to be bubbly and slightly golden on top. The smell filling your kitchen at this point? Pure deliciousness. This is the aroma of an easy, satisfying dinner coming together, making your dinner dreams a reality.
05 - Once your chicken is perfectly cooked and the sauce is bubbling with joy, carefully remove the dish from the oven. This next step is crucial, even though it's hard to wait: let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it tender and moist. While it's resting, grab those fresh chives if you're using them and give them a quick chop. A sprinkle of green over the creamy sauce just adds a pop of freshness and color. Trust me, it makes a difference!
06 - And just like that, dinner is served! Dish out generous portions of this incredible dish, making sure everyone gets plenty of that irresistible creamy ranch sauce. I usually serve it right from the baking dish, because honestly, who needs extra dishes? It's so satisfying to see everyone dig in to something so simple yet so flavorful. Pair it with your favorite sides (more on that later!) and enjoy a truly comforting meal that feels both easy and special.

# Notes:

01 - Don't skip softening the cream cheese; it prevents lumpy sauce!
02 - Reheat leftovers in the oven for juicier results, not the microwave.
03 - Chicken thighs instead of breasts work for extra moisture and flavor.
04 - Serve with fluffy rice to soak up all that creamy sauce.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - 9x13 baking dish
02 - medium mixing bowl
03 - whisk

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 30g
Total Carbohydrate: 5g
Protein: 40g

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