***
This delicious Ranch Chicken recipe is a simple and flavorful dish that can quickly become a weeknight favorite. The combination of tender chicken breasts and creamy ranch sauce creates a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.
why make this recipe
Ranch Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a satisfying dinner option. The ranch seasoning gives the chicken a nice flavor, while the heavy cream adds richness and makes the sauce extra creamy. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup! Whether you’re cooking for family or a small gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
how to make Ranch Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the heavy cream to the same skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer while stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to coat in the creamy ranch sauce for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately while warm.
how to serve Ranch Chicken
Ranch Chicken is best served hot right off the skillet. You can pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce can be drizzled over the sides for added flavor.
how to store Ranch Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the Ranch Chicken cool completely. Store the chicken and the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, or microwave until warmed through.
tips to make Ranch Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the ranch seasoning mix and a bit of olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
- If you want a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even milk, though it will be less rich.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the skillet while cooking for additional nutrition.
variation (if any)
You can make a spicy version by adding some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the cream. For a different flavor profile, try using Italian seasoning instead of ranch seasoning.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They are more flavorful and juicy, though cooking times may vary slightly.
2. Can I freeze Ranch Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Ranch Chicken. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 months.
3. What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley to create a similar flavor profile.
Ranch Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A simple, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a creamy ranch sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the heavy cream to the same skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer while stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to coat in the creamy ranch sauce for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in ranch seasoning and olive oil for a few hours. For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Ranch Chicken, easy chicken dinner, weeknight meal, creamy chicken, one-pan dinner