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Creamy Ranch Chicken

by easysweetmeal
Creamy Ranch Chicken

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If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner that’s packed with flavor, this Creamy Ranch Chicken is the answer! Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy ranch sauce made with sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of ranch seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Creamy and Flavorful: The ranch sauce is rich, tangy, and packed with flavor.
  • Versatile: Serve with pasta, rice, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
  • Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients Breakdown:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The protein base, juicy and tender.
  • Salt and black pepper – Enhances flavor and seasoning.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix – Adds tangy, herby ranch flavor.
  • 1 cup sour cream – Creates a creamy, rich sauce.
  • ½ cup chicken broth – Adds moisture and depth.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a salty, nutty finish.
  • Fresh parsley – For a fresh pop of color and taste.

Creamy Ranch Chicken

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Tips and Tricks

  • Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before searing.
  • Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Keep the heat low to prevent the sour cream from curdling.
  • Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-grated.
  • Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for a one-pan meal.

Variations and Customizations

  • Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Garlic Lovers: Stir in 2-3 minced garlic cloves with the ranch seasoning for extra flavor.
  • Creamier Sauce: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the ranch dressing mix is gluten-free.

Pairing Suggestions

  • Pasta: Serve over fettuccine or penne for a creamy pasta dish.
  • Rice: Pair with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a fresh salad.
  • Bread: Enjoy with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the sauce.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
  • Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before reheating.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative, but the sauce may be slightly tangier.

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Creamy Ranch Chicken

Creamy Ranch Chicken


  • Author: easysweetmeal
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Creamy Ranch Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender, seared chicken smothered in a creamy ranch-infused sauce. With tangy sour cream, savory Parmesan, and a hint of herbs, this one-skillet meal is perfect for a cozy dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing the chicken)
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix (for a bold, herby flavor)
  • 1 cup sour cream (for creaminess and tang)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (thins the sauce and adds depth)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a savory, cheesy finish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and freshness)

Instructions

  1. Season and Sear the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • Lower the heat to medium and add the ranch dressing mix, sour cream, and chicken broth to the skillet.
    • Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    • Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
    • Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the sauce has thickened.
  4. Add Cheese and Garnish:
    • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and let it melt into the sauce.
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the chicken warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.
  • Double the recipe for larger gatherings or meal prep—this dish is always a hit!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

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