Cast Iron Chicken Broccoli Ranch: A Delicious One-Pan Meal Recipe

Cast Iron Chicken Broccoli Ranch is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavors of chicken, the crunch of fresh broccoli, and the creamy goodness of ranch dressing, all cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet. This recipe not only offers a quick and convenient meal option for busy weeknights but also pays homage to the rustic charm of cast iron cooking, which has been a staple in kitchens for generations. I love how the cast iron retains heat, allowing the chicken to sear beautifully while the broccoli becomes tender yet crisp.

People adore Cast Iron Chicken Broccoli Ranch for its incredible taste and texture. The combination of juicy chicken and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich ranch sauce, creates a comforting dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, the one-pan preparation means less cleanup, making it a favorite among families and busy individuals alike. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Season the Chicken**: In a large bowl, take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Use your hands to rub the seasonings into the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. 3. **Sear the Chicken**: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a delicious crust and locks in the juices. 4. **Remove and Set Aside**: Once the chicken is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through at this point; it will finish cooking in the oven.

Preparing the Broccoli

5. **Blanch the Broccoli**: While the chicken is searing, bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture. 6. **Drain and Set Aside**: After a few minutes in the ice water, drain the broccoli again and set it aside.

Assembling the Dish

7. **Combine Chicken and Broccoli**: In the same cast iron skillet (don’t clean it out; we want all those delicious flavors), place the seared chicken breasts back in. Arrange the blanched broccoli florets around the chicken. 8. **Add Ranch Dressing**: Pour the ranch dressing evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Make sure to cover the chicken well, as this will add moisture and flavor during baking. 9. **Top with Cheese**: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the ranch-dressed chicken and broccoli. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey topping.

Cooking Process

10. **Bake in the Oven**: Carefully transfer the cast iron skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden. 11. **Check for Doneness**: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast; it should read 165°F (74°C). If it’s not quite there, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Serving the Dish

12. **Garnish and Serve**: Once the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor. 13. **Plate It Up**: Serve the chicken and broccoli directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation, or transfer to individual plates. Make sure to spoon some of that creamy ranch sauce over the chicken and broccoli for extra flavor. 14. **Enjoy**: Dig in and enjoy the delicious combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy ranch cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

Tips and Variations

15. **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the ranch dressing or using a spicy ranch variation. 16. **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers, carrots, or even cauliflower. Just make sure to blanch them along with the broccoli to keep everything tender. 17.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cast Iron Chicken Broccoli Ranch recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and the creamy ranch dressing creates a delightful harmony that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, cooking everything in a cast iron skillet not only enhances the flavors but also makes for easy cleanup—who doesn’t love that? For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a side of fluffy rice or a fresh garden salad to round out your meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, or even swapping out the ranch dressing for a zesty vinaigrette for a different twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Cast Iron Chicken Broccoli Ranch recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print