Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts (approx. 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1/2 cup Prepared Ranch Dressing
  • 1 tbsp Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or blend)
  • 4 strips Cooked Bacon, finely crumbled
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Chives, finely minced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the prepared Ranch Dressing and the dry Ranch Seasoning Mix. Stir until thoroughly incorporated into a thick topping base.
  4. Spoon the Ranch topping mixture evenly over the top surface of each chicken breast. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the chicken registers an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  5. Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the sauced chicken, followed by the crumbled bacon.
  6. Return the dish to the oven or switch to the broiler setting (watching carefully). Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken reaches a final safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest in the dish for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish generously with fresh chives.