Name: Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra creaminess); Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luscious, flavorful ranch-infused cream sauce that’s rich without being complicated. Every bite bursts with the tangy zest of ranch seasoning, balanced by the smoothness of heavy cream and the subtle punch of garlic. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this recipe promises a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss and maximum taste.

Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient. These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one contributing a unique touch to the final dish’s taste, texture, and color.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish providing tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior on the chicken while adding subtle fruitiness.
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix: Infuses the sauce with that classic zesty ranch flavor that makes this recipe irresistible.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture of the sauce, elevating every bite.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness of the cream and adds depth to the sauce.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds an extra layer of creamy cheesiness and a hint of sharpness for those who want to indulge a little more.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic warmth and complexity to the dish.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance and bring all flavors together.
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of vibrant green freshness and a mild herbal brightness.

How to Make Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step is key to boosting the chicken’s natural flavor so every bite is savory and balanced.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, place the chicken breasts into the pan carefully. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust and are cooked through with no pink remaining. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. This searing locks in juices that keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Using the same skillet (no need to dirty a new pan!), add the minced garlic. Sauté it for roughly 30 seconds, just until fragrant and aromatic. Be vigilant to avoid burning the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly. This step fills your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that will get everyone excited for dinner.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Turn the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix and stir constantly to blend everything into a smooth, flavorful sauce that starts to thicken and bubble gently.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Allow your sauce to simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes. This simmer not only thickens the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency but also melds all the flavors beautifully. If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, stir it in now and watch it melt into the sauce, creating an irresistibly rich and gooey texture.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the creamy ranch mixture generously over the top. Let them cook together for 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken warms through and absorbs some of that amazing ranch creaminess.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is heated through and well combined, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the dish. This finishing touch not only adds a bright pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the rich sauce.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives are your go-to garnishes here. They add a lively and fresh contrast to the creamy, savory sauce. A light sprinkle just before serving ensures your dish looks as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with comforting sides. Think fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of the sauce, fluffy rice for a simple base, or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to add some crisp texture and a healthy balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the plate by serving the chicken sliced on a bed of garlic butter noodles for a delicious twist or atop a crisp green salad for a lighter, elegant meal. You can even stuff the creamy ranch chicken into puff pastry for an impressive appetizer or main course that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, allow any leftovers to cool fully before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll keep fresh for up to 3 days, keeping that creamy ranch flavor intact.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, separating the chicken and sauce if possible for best texture. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or quality.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat your chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave at medium power. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating helps maintain that lovely creamy texture without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?

Absolutely! Thighs or drumsticks are great alternatives and tend to be juicier than breasts. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and perfect tenderness.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little cornstarch can work, but keep in mind the texture won’t be as rich or thick. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative though it will add a hint of coconut flavor.

Is the Ranch Seasoning Mix Really Necessary?

It’s the secret to capturing that quintessential ranch flavor effortlessly. You can make your own blend of dried herbs and spices, but using a pre-made packet keeps the recipe simple and reliably delicious.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, just ensure your ranch seasoning mix and chicken broth are labeled gluten-free. Most brands offer gluten-free options, so you can enjoy this tasty chicken recipe without worry.

How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?

If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ranch seasoning or mix in some diced jalapeños when sautéing the garlic. It adds a fantastic kick that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a family favorite. It’s effortless enough for weeknights yet comforting enough to serve guests. The creamy, savory sauce and perfectly cooked chicken make every bite a joy. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how simple delicious comfort food can be!

Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 30 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy ranch sauce. With simple ingredients like ranch seasoning, garlic, heavy cream, and optional cheddar cheese, it’s a comforting dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect served over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

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

Sauce

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

Garnish

Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the middle. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn! You want it to be fragrant but not browned.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then add the ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything well to combine and create a smooth sauce.
Thicken the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This will allow it to thicken slightly. If you’re adding shredded cheddar cheese, stir it in now until it melts and makes the sauce creamy.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy ranch sauce over the chicken and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will warm the chicken through and help it soak up the ranch flavor.
Serve and Garnish: Once everything is heated and combined, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve your creamy ranch chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Notes

You can substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts, adjusting cooking time to ensure they reach 165°F internally.
If you don’t have heavy cream, full-fat coconut milk or a mixture of milk and cream cheese can be used as alternatives.
Adding shredded cheddar cheese is optional but adds extra creaminess and flavor.
For a lower fat option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be just fragrant.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: American