This Creamy Ranch Chicken is a quick and tasty dinner option! With tender chicken cooked in a yummy ranch sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Honestly, this dish has a way of turning any ordinary evening into something special. Plus, it comes together in no time—just cook, sauce, and serve! What’s not to love? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook quickly. If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless thighs offer more flavor and tenderness. You can also use chicken tenders for even faster cooking.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you need a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk will work, but it won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: You can buy this pre-made, but feel free to make your own using a mix of dried herbs like dill, parsley, chives, garlic, and onion powder. It’s a fun way to customize the flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice saltiness and depth. If you’re out, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! Here’s how to avoid dry chicken:
- Start with even-sized chicken breasts so they cook uniformly. Consider pounding them a little flat if they’re thick.
- After seasoning, don’t cook the chicken on high heat; medium heat works best. This allows it to cook evenly without burning the outside.
- Cook until just done! 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 helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
How to Make Creamy Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy ranch chicken recipe will take about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the chicken, and then around 15 minutes for simmering the sauce and bringing everything together. It’s quick and delicious for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and place it on a plate. Set aside for now.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to low. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape any tasty bits left in the pan from the chicken. These will add flavor to your sauce!
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to thicken just a little bit—it should look creamy and luscious!
5. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts and makes the sauce nice and smooth.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon that creamy ranch sauce over them so they’re well-coated. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color. Serve your creamy ranch chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or with some steamed vegetables on the side. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ about Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add even more flavor and moistness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt, though this may alter the creaminess. Using skinless chicken breast and pairing it with steamed vegetables can also make this dish a healthier option.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to the sauce to keep it creamy!
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze creamy ranch chicken! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It should last about 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
