Creamy Ranch Chicken

It can be served over a bed of rice, pasta, or quinoa for a hearty meal, or it can be served as a main course. Pair it with easy side dish recipes like potato salad, bacon-wrapped asparagus, mashed potatoes, or even a side salad. 

Make this creamy chicken recipe for a quick weeknight meal or for meal prep during the week. Not only is this dish made from simple ingredients you can find anywhere, but you can also whip it up in just 30 minutes or less! Great for when you crave a delicious and quick homemade meal with little effort. 

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe offers an easy solution for busy weeknights when you crave a satisfying homemade meal without the hassle.
• From pairing perfectly with rice, pasta, quinoa, or a variety of side dishes, this dish adapts to fit your family's needs easily. 
• The combination of chicken breast in a creamy ranch sauce is a match made in heaven that everyone will enjoy. 
• This easy main course will keep you satisfied with hearty protein coming from lean pan-seared chicken breast. 

Ingredients You'll Need

Chicken Breast - The star of the dish, the chicken breast serves as the protein base, offering a tender and juicy foundation for the flavors to come together.

Seasoning (salt, pepper, onion powder, paprika) - This combination of seasonings adds depth and complexity to the chicken's flavor profile, enhancing its taste and creating a well-balanced foundation.

Butter - Used for pan-searing the chicken, the butter contributes richness and aids in achieving a beautifully golden outside. 

Creamy Ranch Sauce:

• Half and Half - Lends a velvety texture, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Sour Cream - Adds tanginess and creaminess to the sauce while enhancing its overall taste.
• Black Pepper - Provides a subtle kick of heat to the sauce.
• Onion Powder - Imparts a savory, mild onion undertone that pairs well with the bold flavors of the ranch. 
• Ranch Seasoning - Infuses the sauce with a blend of herbs and spices that defines the dish's signature flavor.

How To Make Creamy Ranch Chicken

Prepare the chicken breast: Trim any excess fat off of the chicken breast. Pat dry on both sides with paper towels. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika.

Pan-sear chicken breasts: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Assemble the ranch sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Whisk in half and half, sour cream, black pepper, onion powder, and ranch seasoning. Whisk occasionally for 5 minutes until the sauce starts to bubble.

Add chicken: Reduce heat to low and add the chicken back in. Cover with sauce and simmer for 5 minutes or until chicken is heated through. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy! 

Recipe Tips

• To ensure even cooking, butterfly the chicken breasts or gently pound them to an even thickness before seasoning and searing.
• While pan-searing the chicken, baste it with the melted butter to infuse moisture and flavor, resulting in a caramelized exterior.
• Use medium-high heat to sear the chicken initially, and then reduce to medium when preparing the sauce While simmering the sauce, remember to stir occasionally to prevent scorching and to evenly distribute the flavors as they come together.
• Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning according to your taste preference, adding gradually and tasting to achieve the desired level of ranch flavor.
• Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
• If you desire a thicker sauce, you can gently simmer it for a bit longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry. 

Variations

• Swap the ranch seasoning for a blend of dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder to infuse the dish with Mediterranean flavors.
• Experiment with a touch of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper in the seasoning for a smoky, slightly spicy chicken.
• Enhance the sauce's herbal notes by adding a medley of fresh chopped herbs like chives, parsley, and dill to the mixture.
• Add grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese into the sauce for an extra layer of richness and depth.
• Incorporate sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts into the sauce for added texture and a burst of colorful flavor.
• Instead of using chicken breasts, use boneless skinless chicken thighs. Be sure to adjust the cooking time and make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165F.
• For added texture and flavor, add diced bacon, ham, or pancetta to the sauce. 
• Stir in a few tablespoons of tomato paste for a rich and creamy tomato flavor. 

Storing & Freezing

Storing: To store leftover ranch chicken, allow it to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Consume the leftovers within 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent dryness.

Freezing: After cooking and cooling, store the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain its moisture and taste. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a touch of liquid if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQ

More Easy Chicken Recipes

• Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
• Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

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