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Baked Mississippi Chicken

Baked Mississippi Chicken

Baked Mississippi Chicken is a rich and creamy baked dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a flavorful blend of ranch seasoning, pepperoncini peppers, cream cheese, butter, and melted cheddar cheese. This comforting one-pan meal is easy to prepare, uses common pantry ingredients, and delivers a cheesy, buttery sauce perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
  • 45 pepperoncini peppers
  • 6 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to build a flavorful base.
  2. Arrange the Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spread dollops of softened cream cheese evenly over each breast. Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix over the top, then arrange the pepperoncini peppers on each chicken breast. Dot the dish with pieces of butter to enrich the sauce.
  3. Bake Until Perfect: Bake the dish uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through. The cream cheese will melt into a creamy sauce while the flavors meld together.
  4. Add Cheddar Cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cooked chicken. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Serve Warm: Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes so the flavors settle and the sauce thickens slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for easier spreading and melting.
  • Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender; target an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Use fresh pepperoncini peppers without added preservatives or excessive salt for best flavor.
  • Try alternative cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a different twist.
  • Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking to let the sauce thicken and flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mississippi chicken, baked chicken, creamy chicken, ranch chicken, comfort food, one-pan meal, easy dinner