Description
Million Dollar Chicken is a flavorful baked chicken dish featuring tender boneless skinless chicken breasts coated in a creamy ranch-seasoned cream cheese mixture, topped with sharp cheddar cheese, and baked to perfection. This comforting and cheesy recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
Cheese and Seasoning Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking during baking.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Coat Chicken: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each seasoned chicken breast, ensuring they are fully coated, then arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the coated chicken breasts to create a rich and flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) indicating it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika on top before baking.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Ensure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
