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.
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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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Cheese and Garnish:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and let it melt into the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- 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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