Bacon Ranch Chicken Recipe

This Bacon Ranch Chicken is a creamy, flavorful, and simple-to-make recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Boneless chicken breasts are cooked in a rich ranch-flavored sauce made with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, then topped with crispy bacon and melted cheese. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a quick dinner idea, this dish is packed with delicious bacon and ranch flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy chicken recipe is ideal for family dinners and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You’ll love the creamy texture and savory taste of this one-pan chicken recipe—a guaranteed hit at your dinner table!

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup milk
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (see notes)
• 1 teaspoon EACH: parsley, mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Chicken & Toppings

• 6-8 strips bacon (reserve drippings)
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, diced

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Sauce

1. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, parsley, mustard powder, and onion powder. Set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon: Cut the bacon in half and place it in a deep 12-inch skillet. Cook over low heat until crispy on each side. Remove and set aside, reserving the drippings. Chop the bacon once cooled.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Cover with plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound to ½-inch thickness. Pat dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Brush each side with the reserved bacon drippings.

Cook the Chicken

4. Heat the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside. Wipe the skillet to remove any burnt bits.
5. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the prepared sauce and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to thicken.

Assemble and Bake

6. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and cover partially. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to heat through.
7. Preheat your oven broiler to 400°F (or set to a low broil setting).
8. Top with Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped bacon. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid over-browning.
9. Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with diced green onions. Serve the chicken with extra sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted green beans for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy & Flavorful: This one-pan dish is loaded with savory flavors from bacon, ranch, and cheddar cheese, all in a creamy sauce.
• Quick to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of bacon, cheese, and ranch is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

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Tips

• Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: To make the transition from stovetop to oven easy and keep the flavors in one pan.
• Don’t Skip the Bacon Drippings: They add extra flavor to the chicken.
• Adjust the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can substitute with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Swap the Chicken: Use pork chops or chicken thighs for a variation on the protein.
• Use Homemade Ranch: If you prefer a fresher flavor, make your own ranch seasoning mix or use a store-bought version.

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FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store the cooked chicken in the sauce and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop and broil the cheese just before serving.

What can I serve with Bacon Ranch Chicken?
Serve it with roasted vegetables, a side of garlic bread, or over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. For a lighter side, try a green salad or steamed asparagus.

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Serving Suggestions

• Over Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the creamy ranch sauce over mashed potatoes for a deliciously indulgent side dish.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted green beans, carrots, or broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
• Serve with Rice or Noodles: For a more substantial meal, serve over white rice, brown rice, or egg noodles.

This Bacon Ranch Chicken is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion!