This Creamy Ranch Chicken is the perfect meal for busy nights! It’s packed with flavor from ranch seasoning and made creamy with rich ingredients, making every bite super tasty.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to whip up and loved by everyone, this is it! I love pairing it with some rice or veggies for a complete meal—delicious and simple all in one!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for quick cooking and tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs instead; they remain juicy and flavorful.
Ranch Seasoning: A classic for this dish, ranch seasoning adds bold flavor. If you don’t have a packet, you can mix plain yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs (like dill) for a tasty homemade version.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for lighter options, half-and-half or even coconut cream can work well, though they may slightly change the flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Optional but tasty! You can substitute it with mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor or omit it for a lighter sauce.
How Do I Get Tender and Juicy Chicken?
The key to perfectly cooked chicken is managing your heat and cooking time. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Always preheat your skillet to medium-high before adding the chicken for a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this lets them cook evenly. Depending on your skillet size, you may need to do this in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer! The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be perfectly cooked.
Resting the chicken a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making it even juicier!
How to Make Creamy Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra richness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Ranch Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you will need about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dinner solution!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the ranch seasoning mix. Make sure both sides are well coated for the best flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and the remaining ranch seasoning. If you’re using cheddar cheese, add that too! Stir it all together and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to spoon some of that creamy ranch sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld and the chicken is heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch. This dish goes perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies, creating a tasty and easy dinner experience!
Enjoy your Creamy Ranch Chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. You can also try it with pork chops or even tofu for a vegetarian option—just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, although the sauce may be a bit less creamy. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream or a non-dairy milk combined with a bit of cornstarch can work too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream for moisture if needed.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken and sauce over low heat together until warmed through.
