This Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken is a real winner! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich ranch-flavored sauce that’s super simple to make and oh-so-tasty.
You’ll love how it all comes together in just one pan. I always serve it with rice, so I can soak up every bit of that creamy goodness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is a nice choice for quick cooking. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs, which are juicier, or even diced chicken if you prefer smaller pieces.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the heart of the flavor. However, if you don’t have a packet, you can make your own with dried herbs like parsley, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. It’s a fun way to customize the taste!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy cream can work too. Just keep in mind that the consistency might be slightly thinner.
Cheddar Cheese: I love adding cheese for extra creaminess. If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you could use mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor twist.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken right is key to this dish. Start by heating the skillet on medium so the chicken gets a nice golden crust. Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Season both sides of the chicken well to enhance flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps it stay juicy!
Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This tasty recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in 30 minutes or less!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it heats up, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the middle. Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat a bit and add the chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, and heavy cream. Give this a good stir until everything is combined. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 3-4 minutes. If you want extra creaminess, this is the time to add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s melted and smooth.
3. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and make sure to spoon that luxurious sauce over the chicken. Let it all cook together for another 2 minutes to warm through. When serving, don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
This Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add more moisture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and butter (about 3/4 cup of milk with 1/4 cup of melted butter) to achieve a similar creaminess.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover creamy ranch chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave to enjoy it again!
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken in the creamy sauce for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to help reintroduce the sauce’s creaminess.
