Cream Cheese Ranch Chicken with Bacon and Cheese: A Perfect Comfort Dish
This Cream Cheese Ranch Chicken with Bacon and Cheese recipe brings together rich, creamy flavors with crispy bacon and tender chicken, making it a perfect option for a comforting dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.
When you combine ranch dressing mix, cream cheese, and cheddar, the result is a flavorful and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken. For another great option for weeknight dinners, check out this baked chicken recipe that’s just as easy to make.
Looking to pair this creamy chicken with a side? Consider trying roast potatoes, carrots, and onions, which provide a hearty and balanced meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5-2 lbs)
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- ½ tsp onion powder (or more to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (or more to taste)
- 1 ½ to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled (or about ½ cup bacon bits)
Instructions:
- Prep the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the bacon until crispy, crumble, and set aside.
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier spreading.
- Prepare the Chicken
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a baking dish, ensuring they don’t overlap. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the Cream Cheese
- Spread softened cream cheese generously over each chicken breast. If the cream cheese is firm, microwave it for about 15 seconds to soften it further.
- Season the Chicken
- Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly over the cream cheese. Lightly dust each piece with onion powder and garlic powder for added flavor.
- Add Cheese and Bacon
- Top the chicken breasts with shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the cheese for a crispy, savory finish.
- Bake
- Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The cheese should be melted and the bacon crispy.
- Serve
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with sides like Southern fried chicken for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Add more garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella for a milder taste.
This Cream Cheese Ranch Chicken with Bacon and Cheese is a dish that combines the best of creamy and savory flavors, and it’s sure to be a hit at your next family dinner!