Discover a comforting one-dish ranch chicken recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and family-approved. This easy oven-baked dinner uses simple ingredients, minimal prep, and delivers cozy, homemade comfort perfect for busy weeknights.
There’s something deeply comforting about meals that come together in a single dish. Less mess. Less stress. More time spent around the table. That’s exactly why this one-dish ranch chicken recipe has become a staple in my Florida kitchen.
I’m Angela, a home cook, travel enthusiast, and mom of three. After years of juggling busy schedules, I’ve learned that the best dinners are often the simplest ones. This recipe delivers that same cozy feeling you get from a classic chicken pot pie recipe, but without hours of prep.
Creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, and a no-fuss baking method make this dish perfect for weeknights. If you love comforting chicken dinners that actually fit real life, you’re in the right place.
Table of contents
Main Ingredients for the One-Dish Ranch Chicken Recipe
This one-dish ranch chicken recipe relies on simple, dependable ingredients that work together beautifully.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up the creamy ranch sauce. - Ranch dressing mix
Brings that classic tangy, herby flavor everyone recognizes. - Full-fat sour cream
Creates a rich, velvety sauce that holds up in the oven. - Low-sodium chicken broth
Keeps the chicken moist while thinning the sauce just enough. - Fresh garlic
Adds warmth and depth that balances the ranch seasoning. - Salt and black pepper
Simple, but essential for building flavor from the start.
These ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly. And if you’re starting with leftovers instead, many of these flavors pair perfectly with ideas from my rotisserie chicken recipes.
Additional Ingredients
One of the things I love most about this dish is how flexible it is. You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand.
- Shredded cheddar or mozzarella for extra comfort
- Greek yogurt as a lighter swap for sour cream
- Cream cheese for an even richer sauce
- Broccoli or green beans to make it a one-pan meal
- Boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness
If creamy chicken dinners are already your comfort zone, you’ll probably also enjoy classics like my chicken fettuccine Alfredo.
Expert Tips for the One-Dish Ranch Chicken Recipe
A few small details make a big difference with this one-dish ranch chicken recipe.
- Pound thicker chicken breasts so they cook evenly.
- Always season the chicken directly, not just the sauce.
- Bake covered first to lock in moisture.
- Uncover at the end so the sauce thickens naturally.
- Use a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving.
If your sauce thickens too much, just stir in a splash of warm broth. And if your family loves extra sauce, doubling it is never a bad idea.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Whisk together sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Arrange the chicken in the dish and pour the sauce evenly over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Let rest briefly, then spoon extra sauce over the top before serving.
Additional Guide
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, it’s easy to change things up.
- Add cooked rice to the dish for a casserole-style meal.
- Stir in red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Try it in the slow cooker for ultra-tender chicken.
For nights when you’re craving bold flavors instead of creamy comfort, recipes like my cowboy butter chicken bites are always a hit.
FAQs About the One-Dish Ranch Chicken Recipe
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, though the sauce may change texture slightly when thawed.
What goes well on the side?
Rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables all work beautifully.
Conclusion
This one-dish ranch chicken recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s creamy, dependable, and made for real life.
At this stage of life, I’ve learned that the best meals are the ones that bring everyone to the table without stress. If you try this recipe, I’d love to know how you made it your own. Pull up a chair, pour something warm, and enjoy every bite.
One-Dish Ranch Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Baking Dish
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1.5 lbs
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Ranch Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 oz ranch dressing mix about 1 packet
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a bowl, whisk together the sour cream, ranch seasoning, minced garlic, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the baking dish and pour the ranch sauce evenly over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 10–15 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest briefly, then serve warm with extra sauce spooned over the chicken.