Easy One Pan Baked Ranch Chicken With Broccoli And Bacon Recipe

Introduction

This Easy One-Pan Ranch Chicken Bake is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight. With just 10 minutes of prep, you get a complete, flavorful meal of juicy chicken, crispy broccoli, and savory bacon all roasted together. The ranch seasoning creates a deliciously herby crust. For another simple, herbed chicken dish, try this Herb Roasted Chicken In Creamy White Wine Sauce Recipe.

Ingredients

This easy one-pan baked ranch chicken with broccoli and bacon comes together with simple ingredients that create a flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut or pounded thin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons ranch dressing
• 2 cups chopped broccoli florets, very small bite-sized pieces
• 1½ cups shredded Colby jack cheese (or cheddar)
• ¼ cup bacon bits (about 3-4 slices crumbled)

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This easy ONE-PAN Baked Ranch Chicken with Broccoli and Bacon is ready in about 35 minutes, roughly 25% faster than similar multi-pan recipes thanks to its streamlined, single-sheet-pan method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a large, rimmed baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or foil for effortless cleanup. This high heat is key for getting crispy bacon and tender, juicy chicken.

Step 2 — Season the Chicken

Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts on the prepared pan. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil, then generously coat all sides with dry ranch seasoning mix. For extra flavor, you can let the seasoned chicken sit for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3 — Add the Bacon and Broccoli

Arrange 6-8 strips of bacon around the chicken on the same pan. In a large bowl, toss 1 pound of broccoli florets with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the broccoli in a single layer on any remaining space on the baking sheet.

Step 4 — Bake to Perfection

Place the loaded pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The bacon will be crisp and the broccoli will start to caramelize at the edges. This one-pan method allows the flavors to mingle beautifully.

Step 5 — Check for Doneness

After 20 minutes, check the chicken. It is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. If the bacon is done early, you can remove it to a plate to prevent over-browning.

Step 6 — Rest and Serve

Let the baked ranch chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist. Serve immediately with the crispy bacon and roasted broccoli for a complete, easy dinner.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~45 g
Carbohydrates	~12 g
Fat	~32 g
Fiber	~3 g
Sodium	~980 mg

Note: These are approximate per-serving estimates for this Easy ONE-PAN Baked Ranch Chicken with Broccoli and Bacon, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual values can vary.

Healthier Alternatives

This easy one-pan baked ranch chicken with broccoli and bacon is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs or preferences.

• Protein Swap — Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, or swap in firm tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace the broccoli with cauliflower florets or a mix of zucchini and bell peppers to further reduce carbs.
• Dairy-Free Ranch — Use a store-bought dairy-free ranch seasoning packet or make your own blend with dried herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Gluten-Free — Ensure your ranch seasoning mix and any added thickeners are certified gluten-free, as some brands contain wheat.
• Low-Sodium Version — Opt for a low-sodium ranch seasoning, use unsalted butter, and choose a lower-sodium bacon or reduce the amount.
• Lighter Bacon — For less fat, use turkey bacon or a smaller amount of chopped pancetta for that smoky flavor.
• Extra Veggies — Add sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or red onion to the pan for more fiber and nutrients.
• Oil Alternative — Substitute the olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or use a light spray of cooking oil to reduce overall fat.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy ONE-PAN Baked Ranch Chicken with Broccoli and Bacon is a complete, satisfying meal on its own. To make it shine for any occasion, here are a few simple ideas for pairings, occasions, and plating.

• Perfect Pairings: Serve with a side of fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious pan juices. For a lighter option, a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors beautifully.
• Weeknight Winner: This one-pan wonder is the ultimate easy dinner. Prep it in minutes, pop it in the oven, and enjoy minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Meal Prep Marvel: This recipe scales and stores wonderfully. Portion it into containers for ready-to-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Casual Gathering Go-To: Double the recipe and serve it family-style straight from the pan for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish at potlucks or casual dinners with friends.
• Plating for Presentation: For a more elegant look, plate individual servings. Place a piece of ranch chicken on the plate, arrange the broccoli and bacon alongside, and spoon the pan sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives.
• Kid-Friendly Twist: Kids love the familiar ranch flavor. For picky eaters, you can serve the components separately or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using a crowded pan, which steams the food instead of roasting it. Fix: Use a large, rimmed baking sheet and spread everything in a single layer for perfect caramelization.
• Mistake: Adding raw broccoli at the start, causing it to become mushy. Fix: Add the broccoli florets halfway through baking so they stay tender-crisp.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to pat the chicken dry, leading to a soggy coating. Fix: Thoroughly dry chicken breasts with paper towels before seasoning for a crispier exterior.
• Mistake: Using only dry ranch seasoning, which can taste dusty. Fix: Create a paste by mixing the dry seasoning with olive oil or mayonnaise for richer flavor that clings.
• Mistake: Adding bacon bits too early, so they burn. Fix: Sprinkle pre-cooked bacon over the dish in the last 5-10 minutes of baking just to warm through.
• Mistake: Not preheating the baking sheet, resulting in less browning. Fix: Place your empty pan in the oven as it preheats for an instant sear when ingredients hit the hot surface.
• Mistake: Cutting chicken breasts unevenly, leading to some pieces being overcooked. Fix: Pound thicker ends to an even thickness or slice larger breasts in half horizontally for uniform cooking.
• Mistake: Forgetting to season the broccoli, leaving it bland. Fix: Toss broccoli with a little oil, salt, and pepper before adding it to the pan.
• Mistake: Over-mixing the ranch coating, which can make the chicken tough. Fix: Gently coat the chicken until just covered; avoid vigorous stirring.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled slightly before sealing to prevent excess moisture.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, about 10-15 minutes. You can also use the microwave, though the bacon and broccoli may soften.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Easy ONE-PAN Baked Ranch Chicken with Broccoli and Bacon is reheated to a safe temperature of 165°F before serving.

Conclusion

This easy one-pan baked ranch chicken with broccoli and bacon is the ultimate weeknight dinner. It’s packed with flavor and minimal cleanup. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For more simple, delicious meals, check out our Chicken Pasta in Creamy White Wine Parmesan Cheese Sauce Recipe or Southern Fried Cabbage With Shrimp Sausage & Bacon Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more recipes!

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FAQs

Can I use a different vegetable instead of broccoli?

Yes, you can substitute other hearty vegetables like cauliflower, asparagus, or halved Brussels sprouts. Ensure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking in this easy ONE-PAN Baked Ranch Chicken with Broccoli and Bacon recipe.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The bacon and ranch seasoning also help lock in moisture for this flavorful one-pan meal.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can chop the vegetables and bacon ahead, but for best results, assemble and bake just before serving. This ensures the broccoli stays crisp-tender and the bacon remains perfectly crispy in your easy ONE-PAN Baked Ranch Chicken.