This dish brings together the classic flavors of ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese in a quick and satisfying skillet meal. The chicken stays tender and juicy, while the cheese adds a creamy, savory finish. Since everything cooks in one pan, cleanup is minimal, and the bold, ranch-seasoned flavor makes it a dinner favorite even for picky eaters. Plus, it’s easily adaptable with your favorite veggies or grains.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil or butter
Ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish, optional)
Directions
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
In a small bowl, mix ranch seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Reduce heat to low, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken, and cover the skillet.
Cook for 2–3 more minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15–20 minutes Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
Use chicken thighs: Swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
Add veggies: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a more complete meal.
Low-carb version: Serve with cauliflower rice or a side of roasted vegetables.
Grill instead: Grill the seasoned chicken and top with cheddar just before serving for a smoky twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help keep the chicken moist during reheating. Freezing is possible, but the texture of the cheese may change slightly upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Yes, a homemade mix of dried parsley, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt makes a great substitute for store-bought ranch seasoning.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook it—cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Can I bake this recipe instead?
Yes, bake the seasoned chicken in a 375°F oven for about 25 minutes, then top with cheese and bake for 5 more minutes until melted.
What kind of cheddar works best?
Sharp cheddar adds a bolder flavor, but mild or medium cheddar works well too. Feel free to experiment with white cheddar or a cheddar blend.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb lifestyle when paired with keto-friendly sides.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, season the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking to save time and enhance flavor.
What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, roasted broccoli, rice, or a fresh green salad all complement this chicken beautifully.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly without added anti-caking agents.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just make sure to use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Is this freezer-friendly?
You can freeze the cooked chicken, though cheese texture may change slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Conclusion
Skillet Cheddar Ranch Chicken is a delicious, quick-cooking meal that brings bold flavor and cheesy goodness to the table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving comfort food without a lot of cleanup, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal.
Skillet Cheddar Ranch Chicken is a quick, one-pan dish featuring juicy chicken breasts seasoned with ranch spices and topped with melted cheddar cheese—perfect for a flavorful, comforting weeknight dinner.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15–20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Skillet
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness.
In a small bowl, mix ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
Reduce heat to low, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the chicken, and cover skillet.
Cook for 2–3 more minutes until cheese is melted.
Garnish with parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheddar for best melt and flavor.
Don’t overcook the chicken—check for 165°F internal temp.Make it spicier with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.Add sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers to the skillet.Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
