This Creamy Ranch Chicken is a quick and tasty meal. With tender chicken cooked in a rich ranch-flavored sauce, it’s perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, who can resist a dish that’s creamy and packed with flavor? I love serving it over rice or pasta for a simple dinner that feels special—it’s a real weeknight winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you want, you can use thighs for a richer flavor or even swap in a plant-based protein like tofu for a veggie option.
Ranch Seasoning: Using a packet of ranch seasoning is super easy and gives great flavor. If you don’t have it, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley for a homemade version!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. You can substitute half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but the yogurt may curdle if cooked too high. So use low heat!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is creamy and melts well. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick. Vegan cheese options work too!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting your chicken perfectly cooked is key to this dish! Here are some tips to help:
- Heat the oil on medium-high until hot before adding the chicken. This helps sear the meat
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want it golden brown and no longer pink inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy as the juices redistribute.
With these tips, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken every time!
How to Make Creamy Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, so you can have dinner ready in just 30 minutes! It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds, just until it gets fragrant. Then, lower the heat to medium and stir in the ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!
4. Add Cheese and Return Chicken:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and combined into the sauce. Then, return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let them cook together for another 2 minutes to warm everything through.
5. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. This dish goes perfectly with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete and delicious meal!
Enjoy your creamy ranch chicken dinner! It’s bound to be a hit with the family.
FAQ for Creamy Ranch Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just cook them a bit longer (about 8-10 minutes per side) to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! If you don’t have store-bought ranch seasoning, mix together 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of dried dill, and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley. This will give you a similar flavor profile.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. Just be cautious with the heat when using yogurt to prevent curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. Enjoy!
