Creamy Ranch Chicken : A Flavor-Packed Family Favorite

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful chicken recipe, this Creamy Ranch Chicken is the answer! This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy ranch sauce that’s packed with bold flavor. Whether you’re a fan of ranch dressing or just love a creamy, comforting meal, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.

The best part? It’s a one-pan meal that’s ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a hearty and satisfying dinner. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this ranch chicken recipe is as easy as it is delicious!

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes with minimal effort.
One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
Flavor-Packed: The creamy ranch sauce adds the perfect tangy, herby flavor.
Versatile: Pairs well with rice, pasta, or veggies for a complete meal.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this creamy, comforting chicken.

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Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Ranch Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish

Equipment Used:

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Directions & Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
Add Creamy Ingredients: Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream, sour cream, and ranch seasoning. Add Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika if using. Stir well until smooth.
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Simmer the Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the top. Cover and let simmer for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides!

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Nutritional Information

Each serving (1 chicken breast with sauce) contains:

Calories: 520
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fats: 38g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 2g

This dish is rich in protein and provides a creamy, satisfying meal with minimal carbs, making it a great low-carb option!

Prep Time and Cook Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations:

Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Use Different Cheese: Try cheddar or mozzarella instead of Parmesan.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and stay extra juicy.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance. Store separately and reheat when ready to serve.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat to maintain creaminess.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: It’s best to enjoy fresh, but you can freeze it without the cream and add it fresh when reheating.

Pro Tips By Lynda:

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the depth of flavor.
Let the Sauce Thicken: Simmer for a few minutes to get a rich and creamy consistency.
Double the Sauce: Perfect for serving over pasta or rice!

Serving Suggestions:

With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy potatoes.
Over Rice or Pasta: A great way to make it a hearty meal.
With Steamed Vegetables: Balance the richness with a light veggie side.
Garlic Bread: Because extra dipping sauce is always a good idea!