This Creamy Ranch Chicken is the perfect dinner solution! Juicy chicken smothered in a rich ranch sauce will have everyone cheering for seconds. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Let’s face it, ranch makes everything better. I pair this dish with rice or veggies, and it’s always a hit. Who knew easy could taste so good? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. You can use thighs if you want a juicier option or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Ranch Seasoning: The packet makes it super easy! If you don’t have it, mix dried herbs like dill, parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder for homemade seasoning.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich flavor, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a great flavor. Mozzarella or Parmesan can be substituted, or leave it out for a lighter dish.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep chicken tender, cooking time is key. Here’s how:
- Always pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure it cooks uniformly.
- Cook on medium-high heat, but don’t rush it; about 5-6 minutes per side gives a nice golden color.
- Let it rest after cooking before adding it back to the sauce. This prevents dryness.
How to Make Creamy Ranch Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds flavor to the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Lower the heat to medium, then stir in the ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Mix everything well to combine.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This gives it a rich texture and flavor!
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using cheddar cheese, stir it into the sauce now. Mix until it melts and becomes smooth.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy ranch sauce over them. Let it simmer together for another 2 minutes to heat everything through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor. Serve your creamy ranch chicken warm alongside your choice of rice, potatoes, or steamed vegetables!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely first! Thaw in the fridge overnight, or place the sealed chicken in cold water for a quicker method. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet, adding a splash of cream to freshen up the sauce as you warm it.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Sides Pair Well with Creamy Ranch Chicken?
This dish is delicious over rice or pasta, but it also pairs nicely with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
