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Begin by marinating the chicken. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix and buttermilk until well combined. This mixture not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and delicious. Place the chicken breasts in the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to two hours if you want an even bolder flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more it absorbs the zesty ranch flavor, resulting in a tastier melt.

Zesty Ranch Chicken and Cheddar Melts

Discover the irresistible Zesty Ranch Chicken and Cheddar Melts, the ultimate comfort food for your family meals. This easy recipe features succulent chicken marinated in zesty ranch dressing, combined with gooey cheddar and creamy cream cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing appetizer, these melts are customizable to suit your taste. Get ready to savor each cheesy, flavorful bite and enjoy making new memories in the kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix

½ cup buttermilk

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 large flour tortillas

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix and buttermilk. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

    Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. Then, shred the chicken using two forks.

      Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well incorporated.

        Assemble the Melts: In a large skillet or griddle, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Place a tortilla on the skillet, and spoon a generous amount of the chicken and cheese mixture onto one half of the tortilla. Sprinkle some of the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.

          Cook the Melts: Cook the filled tortilla for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Carefully flip the tortilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until crispy and hot throughout. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

            Serve: Slice the melts into wedges and garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 1 hr | 4 servings