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Lightened-Up Cheesy Ranch Chicken

Lightened-Up Cheesy Ranch Chicken

 Lightened-Up Cheesy Ranch Chicken 🍗🧀

This Lightened-Up Cheesy Ranch Chicken recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish without the guilt. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and has a lighter version of the traditional cheesy ranch flavors.

Ingredients (Makes 4 servings):

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup fat-free ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
  • 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with cooking spray

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesy Ranch Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, reduced-fat cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
  2. Spread the creamy ranch mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

  1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The top should be bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
  2. Serve the chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a light salad.

Tips:

  • Substitute for Chicken Breasts: You can use chicken thighs or tenders if you prefer.
  • Make it Spicy: Add a bit of hot sauce or chili flakes to the creamy ranch mixture for some heat.
  • Add Veggies: You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli on top of the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbs: 4g
  • Fat: 12g
  • WW SmartPoints: 5 (per serving)

This Lightened-Up Cheesy Ranch Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that is perfect for any weeknight meal. It’s low in points but still creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and feel good about indulging! 🍗🧀