Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken

Discover a flavorful and easy dinner option with Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy ranch seasoning and gooey mozzarella cheese, creating a comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet delicious enough for special occasions.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning with the sour cream until well mixed.
3. Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Once cooked, remove from the oven and serve with your choice of sides.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Addition: Add sliced bell peppers or spinach to the baking dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some hot sauce with the ranch mixture for a spicy version.
• Different Cheese: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Grill Option: Instead of baking, you can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   It’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. What sides pair well with this dish?
   Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
3. Can I prepare this in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the chicken and ranch mixture the night before and bake it when ready to serve.
4. Is there a low-fat option?
   Use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to lighten the dish.
5. What if I don’t have Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning?
   You can use homemade ranch seasoning or another seasoning blend of your choice.
6. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).
7. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
   Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well with this recipe.
8. What if I want to make it gluten-free?
   Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning is typically gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure.
9. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle more cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy dish.
10. How do I store leftovers?
    Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken is a quick and satisfying dish that combines the creamy flavor of ranch with tender chicken and melted cheese. Perfect for busy nights or when entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy this flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and delicious!

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