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 freshness of broccoli, and the creamy richness of ranch dressing, all cooked to perfection in a trusty cast iron skillet. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of cast iron cooking but also highlights the ease of preparing a wholesome meal in one pan. As someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, I find that this dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

The origins of cast iron cooking date back centuries, with its ability to retain heat and distribute it evenly, making it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. People adore Cast Iron Chicken Broccoli Ranch for its incredible taste and texture; the chicken becomes tender and juicy, while the broccoli retains a satisfying crunch. Plus, the convenience of a one-pan meal means less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. 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 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 through at this stage; it will finish cooking in the oven.

Preparing the Broccoli

5. **Blanch the Broccoli**: While the chicken is resting, bring a 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. This step helps to maintain their vibrant color and crispness. 6. **Shock the Broccoli**: After blanching, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then drain and set aside.

Assembling the Dish

7. **Combine Chicken and Broccoli**: In the same cast iron skillet (don’t wash it, as you want to keep 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 ranch-dressed chicken and broccoli. The cheese will melt beautifully and create a deliciously gooey topping.

Baking the Dish

10. **Bake in the Oven**: Place the cast iron skillet in 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 cooked through, 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 done, remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor. 13. **Plate and Enjoy**: Serve the chicken and broccoli directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation, or transfer to individual plates. I love to pair this dish with a side of rice or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the ranch and cheese.

Tips and Variations

14. **Customize Your Veggies**: Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix. Cauliflower, bell peppers, or even carrots can be great additions. Just make sure to blanch them along with the broccoli. 15. **Make it Spicy**: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the ranch dressing or using a spicy ranch variant. 16. **Leftovers**: This dish makes for fantastic leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or

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 balance the richness of the ranch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Cast Iron Chicken Broccoli Ranch recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print