This Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken is a comforting dish that’s full of flavor! Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a rich ranch sauce that is super simple to make.
You just mix ranch seasoning with cream and pour it over the chicken. I love serving it with rice or veggies to soak up that creamy goodness—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and work well in this recipe. For a twist, try chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness. You can also use tofu or tempeh if you want a vegetarian option.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the key for flavor. If you’re out, you can make your own with equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and parsley. Just make sure to taste as you go, as homemade can vary in strength.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, half-and-half works well. You could also use coconut cream for a dairy-free option, which adds a nice flavor twist.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to avoid making the sauce too salty. Vegetable broth is a great alternative if you’re keeping it meatless.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken perfectly cooked can sometimes be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this helps the chicken brown better. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy before slicing or serving.
Following these steps will help you achieve tender and flavorful chicken every time!
Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick 25-minute meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by lightly seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma. Then, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift any tasty browned bits. This will give your sauce great flavor!
4. Combine Ranch and Cream:
Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and then pour in the heavy cream. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and coat them well with the creamy ranch sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the flavors are melded together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish your dish with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken hot with your favorite side dish, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator overnight or by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’d like a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and consider using less olive oil. You can also reduce the amount of ranch seasoning to cut back on sodium if needed.
What Other Sides Go Well with Creamy Ranch Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or pasta to soak up the delicious ranch sauce!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
