Loaded Bacon Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bake

Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 0.5 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (Use either sour cream or Greek yogurt.)
• 1 oz ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided; 1 cup for the topping and ½ cup for finishing)
• 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 2 green onions (sliced; optional garnish)
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• cooking spray or oil (For lightly greasing the 9×13-inch baking dish; amount not specified.)

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.

2. 2

   Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

3. 3

   Season the chicken breasts with the garlic powder and black pepper.

4. 4

   In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning mix, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix until smooth.

5. 5

   Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.

6. 6

   Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken, followed by the remaining crumbled bacon.

7. 7

   Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

8. 8

   Broil for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

9. 9

   Garnish with the sliced green onions, if using, and serve hot.

Notes

Optional add-ins mentioned by the creator include sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese. The source does not specify the amount of cooking spray or oil used to grease the baking dish.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• baked
• high-protein
• family-friendly
• chicken
• easy dinner
• American
• gluten-free