Chicken Bacon Ranch: A Flavor-Packed Comfort Classic

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon slices until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside to drain on a paper towel. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
In the same skillet that you used for the bacon, add a little olive oil or butter and cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Assemble the Chicken Bacon Ranch:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you want to bake the dish.
Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread a generous amount of ranch dressing over each chicken breast.
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the ranch-dressed chicken breasts.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring that the cheese is evenly spread across each chicken breast.
Bake:

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer to skip baking, you can cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt over the chicken for a couple of minutes on the stovetop.
Serve:

Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Serving and Storage Tips: