Cheesy Ranch Chicken

The quickest and easiest baked chicken with an amazingly creamy, cheesy Ranch topping! Even Butters was fully onboard with the Ranch situation, as he sits here on his coolaroo, waiting to get a piece of it. And even though the base of the topping involves mayonnaise, which sounds completely bizarre, it actually lends off the most amazing creaminess you’ll ever experience. Mixed in with sharp cheddar and crisp Panko breadcrumbs, you’ll never have to go back to those boring chicken dinners ever again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Ranch Chicken is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s incredibly quick to prepare and delivers a flavor punch that makes it feel like a special treat. The creamy topping, combined with the crispy Panko, creates a delightful texture contrast that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• 9×13 baking dish
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 (1-ounce) package Ranch Seasoning and Salad Dressing Mix
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup Panko*
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9×13 baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Ranch Seasoning, and minced garlic.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste. Place them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish and top with the mayonnaise mixture. Sprinkle Panko on top.
4. Bake in the oven until completely cooked through and golden brown on top, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, about 25-30 minutes.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure the chicken thighs are of similar thickness to cook evenly. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mayonnaise mixture.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a lower-carb version, skip the Panko and replace it with crushed pork rinds. You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is packed with protein and offers a comforting balance of flavors. Each serving provides a rich source of calcium from the cheese and a delightful dose of umami from the Ranch seasoning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.

What can I serve with Cheesy Ranch Chicken?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Try this Cheesy Ranch Chicken recipe for a delightful twist on your usual chicken dinner. It’s easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with your delicious creations!