Crispy Bacon & Ranch Chicken Melt 🥓🍗🧀
Juicy, flavorful, and loaded with cheesy goodness, this Crispy Bacon & Ranch Chicken Melt is the ultimate comfort dish. Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then topped with crispy bacon, melty cheese, and creamy ranch for a satisfying meal that’s simple yet indulgent. It’s a restaurant-worthy dish you can make in under 30 minutes — ideal for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices bacon
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
2 tablespoons ranch dressing (plus extra for serving)
Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain, leaving about one teaspoon of bacon grease in the pan for flavor.
While the bacon cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil (or use the reserved bacon grease) in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Reduce the heat to low. Spread a spoonful of ranch dressing over each chicken breast, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Crumble the cooked bacon over the cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and everything becomes bubbly and gooey.
Once melted, transfer the chicken to plates and drizzle with a little extra ranch dressing if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
Tips for Success
Pound the chicken breasts evenly before cooking to ensure they cook through uniformly. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a bit of ranch dressing for 30 minutes before searing. You can use different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or provolone depending on your preference. If you prefer a crispier finish, place the skillet under the broiler for one minute to brown the cheese.
Serving Ideas
Serve the Crispy Bacon & Ranch Chicken Melt with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad. It also pairs beautifully with roasted broccoli or garlic butter pasta for a full, comforting meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: ~430 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 28g
Conclusion
This Crispy Bacon & Ranch Chicken Melt combines the smoky flavor of bacon, the creamy tang of ranch, and the richness of melted cheese for a meal that’s both hearty and comforting. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy every craving — perfect for anyone who loves a good balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity in one delicious dish.