Creamy Ranch Chicken is a quick and easy dinner idea, featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, tangy ranch sauce. It’s perfect for those nights when I want something hearty yet simple to prepare. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch seasoning into a dish the whole family will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and a single skillet, I can have dinner on the table in under an hour.
Comforting Flavors: The creamy ranch sauce is a crowd-pleaser, adding a savory and tangy twist to juicy chicken breasts.
Versatile: Pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice for a complete meal.
Minimal Cleanup: Since everything is cooked in one skillet, there’s less to wash up.
Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and heated through.
Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are fully coated with the sauce.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot alongside your favorite side dishes.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 400 kcal per serving
Variations
Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the chicken before baking for an extra cheesy topping.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Herb Swap: Substitute parsley with fresh chives or dill for a different flavor profile.
Low-Carb Option: Serve this dish over cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables.
Make It a Casserole: Layer the chicken and sauce over cooked pasta or rice in a baking dish for a one-pan meal.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Related Recipes:
- Easy and Cheesy Ranch Baked Potatoes
- Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes
- Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole
FAQs
How can I tell if the chicken is cooked properly?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). I like using a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe and may even stay juicier than breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then bake just before serving. Keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to bake.
What sides pair well with Creamy Ranch Chicken?
I love serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots. A simple green salad also complements the dish nicely.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While the chicken freezes well, the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. If freezing, reheat gently and whisk the sauce to restore its consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy Ranch Chicken is a versatile and satisfying recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether I’m cooking for family or friends, this dish always earns rave reviews. Its rich, tangy flavors and creamy texture make it a standout meal that I’ll want to make again and again.
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Ranch Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Ranch Chicken is a simple, family-friendly dinner featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, tangy ranch sauce. Ready in under an hour, this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sear the chicken in the skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning. Stir until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Notes
For a cheesy variation, add shredded cheddar or mozzarella before baking.
Adjust seasoning to taste; add cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra spice.
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, One-Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 400 kcal
