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Juicy Baked Ranch Cheddar Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 59 reviews
  • Author: Bara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Juicy Baked Ranch Cheddar Chicken features tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs topped with a creamy blend of Greek yogurt, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, and ranch seasoning, all baked to perfection with a crispy panko breadcrumb crust. This flavorful, easy-to-make dish delivers a deliciously golden and juicy chicken experience, perfect for an effortless weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 8 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs

Topping

  • ½ Cup Greek Yogurt
  • ⅔ Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • 2 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 Tablespoons Ranch Seasoning (any brand)

Crispy Topping and Garnish

  • ⅓ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • ¼ Cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to prepare for baking the chicken.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove moisture, then lightly spray a baking tray with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single, even layer on the tray.
  3. Make Topping: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and ranch seasoning. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a thick, creamy paste.
  4. Apply Topping: Spread the creamy mixture evenly over each piece of chicken, covering them well for maximum flavor.
  5. Add Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly atop each chicken piece to create a crunchy crust.
  6. Bake Chicken: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, ensuring it is safely cooked through.
  7. Optional Broil: At around 40 minutes, turn on the oven broiler and broil the chicken for a few minutes to achieve a golden, crunchy top. This step is optional but highly recommended for added texture and color.
  8. Drain and Pour Juices: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven. Carefully drain the liquid from the bottom of the pan and pour it back over the chicken to keep it juicy and flavorful.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a burst of color and freshness, then serve immediately and enjoy your delicious baked ranch cheddar chicken.

Notes

  • For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they stay juicy and tender during baking.
  • The broiling step is optional but adds a wonderful crispy finish to the breadcrumb topping.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
  • You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred, though cooking time may vary.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.

Find it online: https://yumbara.com/juicy-baked-ranch-cheddar-chicken-recipe/