This Creamy Ranch Chicken is a fun and tasty dish that’s super easy to whip up! Juicy chicken cooked in a smooth ranch sauce makes every bite yummy. Perfect for family dinners!
I love how this dish pairs well with rice or veggies! It’s a go-to on busy nights when you want something quick yet delicious. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully too—just adjust cooking time slightly.
Ranch Seasoning: The ranch packet adds tons of flavor. You can make your own mix using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder if you don’t have a packet on hand.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce its rich texture. For a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Cheddar Cheese: I like to add cheddar for extra creaminess. If you want to skip cheese, that’s fine too! Or, you can use a dairy-free cheese option for a lighter dish.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken breasts can sometimes lead to dryness. To keep your chicken juicy, follow these tips:
- Evenly season the chicken so each bite is flavorful.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows for even cooking and browning.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture.
If you notice the chicken getting too brown, lower the heat to avoid burning while ensuring it cooks through.
How to Make Creamy Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Ranch Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, take your chicken breasts and season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides evenly so it’s tasty all the way through!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
Next, reduce the heat to medium and pour the chicken broth into the skillet. Use a spatula to scrape up any yummy browned bits left in the pan; this adds extra flavor! Then, stir in the heavy cream and ranch seasoning mix until well mixed.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. If you like cheesy flavors, here’s the time to add your shredded cheddar cheese and mix until it’s melted and smooth!
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it in the creamy ranch sauce and spooning some of the sauce over the chicken. Let it all simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve the creamy ranch chicken hot, alongside your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute, as they often stay juicier. Just adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a few more minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to serve. Just reheat both until warmed through before serving!
