Dinner

One Pan Ranch Cheddar Chicken and Rice Recipe

ByEthan Lark April 11, 2026April 11, 2026

Introduction

This One Pan Ranch Cheddar Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together with minimal effort. Tender chicken thighs baked with a cheesy ranch coating, fluffy basmati rice, and vibrant broccoli make for a satisfying dinner the whole family will love.

The image shows a black rectangular pan filled with a layered dish on a white marbled texture surface. The bottom layer is white, fluffy cooked rice that covers the whole pan. Scattered on top of the rice are bright green broccoli florets, some roasted to a dark brown at the edges. On the top are five browned, roasted chicken thighs with crispy, slightly charred skin, placed unevenly across the pan. A silver spoon is partially buried in the rice near the bottom left corner of the pan. In the background, a pale grayish-green cloth and a glass with a dark liquid are partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 chicken thighs or breasts, skin on or off
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/3 cup grated cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons ranch seasoning (homemade blend in notes)
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 3/4 cups dry basmati rice
2 tablespoons salted butter
2 cups roughly chopped broccoli
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the chicken with Greek yogurt, grated cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning, and chopped garlic. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 3: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the dry basmati rice and chopped broccoli. Pour in 2 cups of water and add the salted butter, stirring gently to mix.
Step 4: Arrange the coated chicken pieces over the rice and broccoli. Season everything with salt, pepper, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. If the rice feels firm after this time, add 1/3 cup more water and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it rest briefly. Serve topped with fresh parsley or thyme for extra color and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a homemade ranch seasoning, mix together dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Swap the broccoli for green beans or asparagus depending on your preference or seasonal availability.
Use chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
Make sure to use basmati rice for best texture; adjust cooking time slightly if using other rice varieties.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.