Description
A comforting Southern-style dish featuring tender chicken baked with BBQ sauce, creamy ranch, melted cheddar, and crispy fried onions for an easy and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder
- Optional: smoked paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if desired.
3. Place chicken in a greased baking dish in a single layer.
4. Brush each chicken breast with barbecue sauce and spoon ranch dressing evenly over the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each piece.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and top each piece with crispy fried onions.
8. Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Substitute chicken thighs or tenders for juicier results.
Try pepper Jack or smoked Gouda instead of cheddar for a flavor twist.
Add sliced pepperoncini or jalapeños for extra heat.
Use Greek yogurt mixed with ranch seasoning as a lighter sauce alternative.
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 145mg