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Loaded Bacon Ranch Chicken Bake - Creamy, Cheesy, Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium breasts)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning (about 1 ounce), or 3 tablespoons homemade
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (whole milk or 2%)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
  • Optional: 1 cup small broccoli florets or diced bell pepper
  • Optional garnish: chopped parsley, extra ranch for drizzling

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Line a plate with paper towels for the bacon.
  2. Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Transfer to the paper towels and crumble when cool. Pour off excess bacon fat if desired, but leave a thin sheen to cook optional veggies.
  3. Optional veggie boost: If using broccoli or bell pepper, sauté in the bacon drippings for 2–3 minutes until just crisp-tender. Set aside.
  4. Even out the chicken: Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment and pound to an even 3/4-inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
  5. Season the chicken: Rub chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and the black pepper. Lay the pieces in the baking dish without overlapping.
  6. Make the ranch mixture: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir until smooth.
  7. Assemble the bake: Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the chicken. Top with the cheddar and Monterey Jack. Sprinkle on the crumbled bacon, green onions, and any sautéed veggies.
  8. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 22–28 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly. If you want extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
  9. Rest and garnish: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra green onions or parsley. Add a light drizzle of ranch if you like.
  10. Serve: Pair with a side salad, roasted veggies, or baked potatoes to complete the meal.