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Baked Cheddar Ranch Chicken Thighs

Baked cheddar ranch chicken thighs with crispy skin and melted, bubbly sharp cheddar. Oven-roasted at 425°F with a ranch seasoning rub for savory flavor and golden edges.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 680
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken thighs
  • 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs Use 4 to 6 thighs; skin-on helps crisp up the top.
Ranch seasoning and spices
  • 1 ranch seasoning mix 1 packet ranch seasoning mix.
  • 1 garlic powder Adds savory depth to the ranch rub.
  • 1 smoked paprika For a mild smoky flavor and color.
  • 1 black pepper Freshly ground if possible.
Cheddar topping
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Shred from a block for best melt and stretch.
Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Helps seasoning adhere and supports browning.
Garnish
  • 0.25 fresh chives and extra cheddar for garnish Chives plus a little extra cheddar adds color and finishing flavor.

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan
  • 1 wire rack

Method
 

Prep and season
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F, then pat the chicken thighs dry to help the skin crisp.
  2. Brush the thighs with olive oil, then rub ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper all over.
Bake
  1. Place the thighs skin-side up on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
  2. Bake for 25-28 minutes, until the skin is golden and the fat has rendered.
Add cheese and finish
  1. Top each thigh generously with shredded cheddar, then bake 5-7 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Broil for 2 minutes until the cheese has golden spots.
  3. Garnish with fresh chives and extra cheddar as desired, then serve hot.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, make sure the thighs are thoroughly patted dry before oiling and seasoning. Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat in a 400°F oven until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended for the best skin texture. Dietary swap: use reduced-sodium ranch seasoning mix to lower sodium without changing the method.