Name: Creamy Ranch Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this recipe because of its simple ingredients and the incredible flavor it delivers. The creamy ranch sauce adds a burst of flavor to the tender chicken, and it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze. It’s versatile enough to pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Creamy Ranch Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and ranch seasoning mix. Stir well to combine.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve the creamy ranch chicken with your favorite side dish and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or a hearty vegetable like cauliflower or mushrooms.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the sauce for added depth of flavor.
Low-Carb: Serve with a cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables instead of potatoes for a low-carb alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover creamy ranch chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them first before cooking for the best texture.

2. Can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a little cornstarch or flour mixed with water, then stir it into the sauce while it’s simmering.

3. Can I substitute heavy cream with something else?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as thick or rich.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicier version, you can add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken thighs for breasts. They will add extra flavor and moisture.

6. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To prevent dryness, make sure not to overcook the chicken. Cooking it until just done and simmering it in the sauce will help keep it tender.

7. Can I make this in the oven instead of on the stove?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes. Then, prepare the creamy ranch sauce separately on the stove and combine.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free ranch seasoning mix.

9. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

10. Can I freeze leftover creamy ranch chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and warm up on the stove.

Conclusion

Creamy ranch chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that everyone in your family will love. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s the perfect choice for busy nights. Whether you enjoy it with a side of vegetables, rice, or potatoes, this dish is versatile and packed with flavor. Try it today and see how it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen!