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Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

5 from 15 reviews

This Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luscious ranch-flavored cream sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. The dish is enhanced with garlic and optional cheddar cheese for extra creaminess, finished with fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce

  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor before cooking.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it, to release its fragrance.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir well to create a smooth sauce.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese if using, until melted and creamy.
  6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm through and absorb flavors.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use less cheese.
  • Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; garlic powder can be a substitute but adjust quantity.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy ranch chicken, easy chicken dinner, ranch seasoning, chicken recipe, weeknight meal, creamy chicken sauce