1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking. While the oven heats up, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to even out the thickness. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly, preventing dry edges and undercooked centers.

Once the chicken breasts are even, season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.

2. Cook the Turkey Bacon

While the chicken is resting, cook the turkey bacon. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the slices of turkey bacon. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon becomes crispy. Because turkey bacon tends to cook faster than regular bacon, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Once the bacon is cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. Once cooled slightly, chop the turkey bacon into small pieces. Set aside for later use.

3. Prepare the Ranch Sauce

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir well to create a creamy, smooth sauce. This sauce will coat the chicken and give it its signature creamy, zesty flavor. The ranch seasoning brings a savory depth to the dish, while the sour cream and mayonnaise add richness.

You can adjust the amount of ranch seasoning depending on how strong you want the flavor to be. If you prefer a milder taste, use half the packet of seasoning.

4. Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This quick searing step adds extra flavor and helps seal in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and moist.

Once the chicken is seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be fully cooked but still juicy and tender.

5. Assemble the Dish

After the chicken has finished baking, remove it from the oven. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared ranch sauce over each chicken breast, spreading it evenly across the surface. Then, sprinkle the chopped turkey bacon pieces on top of the sauce.

Once the bacon is added, top each chicken breast with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice). Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce begins to lightly brown.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the oven. For an added pop of color and freshness, garnish the Cheesy Turkey-Bacon Ranch Chicken with chopped fresh parsley. This step adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness to balance the richness of the dish.

Serve the Cheesy Turkey-Bacon Ranch Chicken with your favorite sides, such as steamed broccoli, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The creamy ranch sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile option for any meal.