This Creamy Ranch Chicken dish is quick and oh-so-tasty! With tender chicken cooked in a rich ranch sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
I love how simple it is—just sear the chicken and stir in the sauce. Pair it with rice or veggies, and dinner is ready in no time. What’s better than that? 🍗💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a different option, chicken thighs can work well too—they add more flavor and moisture!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream: It adds tanginess to the sauce. If you’re avoiding dairy, plain Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. Just mix it in carefully to prevent curdling.
Ranch Seasoning: A packet of ranch seasoning gives the dish its unique flavor. You can also make your own blend using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder if you’re out of the packet.
Cheddar Cheese: Adding cheese makes the sauce extra rich. If you’re not a cheese fan, it’s perfectly fine to leave it out, or you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key to this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet to get a nice golden brown on the chicken. If the skillet is too cold, the chicken will steam instead of sear.
- Season both sides well! This adds flavor from the outside in.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, but also check for doneness with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in its juices before slicing or serving.
These tips will ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful, making your creamy ranch chicken a hit every time!
Creamy Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the chicken and sauce, and then just let it simmer for a few minutes. Quick and easy, perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to sprinkle the seasonings on both sides of the chicken. This will add delicious flavor right from the beginning!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Now, add the heavy cream, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and nice and creamy. This sauce is going to be delicious!
4. Simmer to Thicken:
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It will thicken up a bit during this time, making it even more flavorful.
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you like, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese at this point. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and blended smoothly into the sauce.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of the creamy sauce over the chicken and let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. This step allows the chicken to soak up some of that yummy sauce!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch. Serve your creamy ranch chicken alongside rice, pasta, or steamed veggies for a comforting meal. Enjoy this easy, delicious dish!
FAQ about Creamy Ranch Chicken
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs or even drumsticks. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed; thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. For the sour cream, try using dairy-free Greek yogurt or a cashew cream for a deliciously creamy texture!
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the creamy ranch sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to use, just reheat it gently on the stove and add the cooked chicken to warm everything through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy ranch chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
