Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

why make this recipe

This dish gives you a quick, creamy meal with plain ingredients. It tastes rich but stays easy to cook. You can make it on a weeknight or for guests. It uses simple pantry items and takes about 30 minutes.

introduction

Creamy Ranch Chicken is tender chicken in a smooth, savory ranch sauce. The sauce comes together fast and coats the chicken well. If you like simple baked chicken meals, try this and also see a baked caprese chicken recipe for another easy dinner idea.

how to make Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

You cook the chicken first to get a light brown outside. Then you make the cream sauce in the same pan. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer until it finishes cooking. The sauce thickens and stays creamy.

Ingredients :

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.2 lb)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix, or 2 tablespoons
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup heavy cream (or 1/2 cup cream + 1/4 cup milk)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions :

1. Pat the chicken dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden. Remove chicken to a plate (it will finish cooking later).
4. Lower heat to medium. If using fresh garlic, add to the pan and cook 30 seconds.
5. Add chicken broth and scrape any brown bits from the pan.
6. Stir in cream cheese until it melts and mixes with the broth.
7. Add heavy cream and ranch seasoning. Stir until smooth. Simmer 3–4 minutes to thicken.
8. Stir in shredded cheese if using, until melted.
9. Return chicken to the pan. Spoon sauce over chicken. Cover and cook 5–7 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) or cooks through.
10. Garnish with parsley and serve.

how to serve Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or with steamed vegetables. It also pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

how to store Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

• Refrigerator: Cool, then store in an airtight container up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat gently on low heat on the stove or in the microwave to avoid breaking the sauce.

tips to make Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

• Pound chicken to even thickness so it cooks evenly.
• Do not overcrowd the pan when searing. Cook in batches if needed.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness (165°F / 74°C).
• If the sauce is too thin, simmer a bit longer. If too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
• Let cream cheese soften before cooking so it blends easier.

variation (if any)

• Use ranch dressing (about 1/3 to 1/2 cup) instead of dry mix; reduce other liquids slightly.
• Add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Swap chicken breasts for thighs; cook a few minutes longer.
• Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes. Use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream. The sauce will be thinner.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Thaw chicken first for best results. Cooking from frozen gives uneven doneness.

Q: How long does it take to make this recipe?
A: About 25–35 minutes from start to finish.

Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes. Store sauce and chicken together in the fridge and reheat for quick meals.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: You can try dairy-free cream and cream cheese substitutes, but texture and taste will change.

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