Description
Million Dollar Chicken is a rich and creamy baked chicken dish featuring tender boneless skinless chicken breasts coated in a savory mixture of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and garlic, then topped with sharp cheddar cheese and baked to perfection. This comforting entree is easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Seasoning Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 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 sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them evenly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and minced garlic. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Coat Chicken: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage. Place the coated breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top of each coated chicken breast.
- Bake: Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven 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
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- You can substitute ranch seasoning with a homemade mix of dried herbs if preferred.
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature of the chicken for food safety.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad.
