Are you looking for a delicious weeknight meal that’s both easy and satisfying? This creamy ranch chicken recipe is here to save the day! With tender chicken breasts smothered in a velvety ranch dressing sauce, it’s a dish that will please everyone at the table. Perfectly paired with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Optional: 1 cup shredded cheese
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on one serving (1 chicken breast with sauce), the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 32g
– Carbohydrates: 5g
– Fat: 35g
– Fiber: 0g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add ranch dressing and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired.
10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ranch dressing with homemade ranch or yogurt for a lighter option. Alternatively, use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy ranch chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also works great in wraps or sandwiches for leftovers.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Ensure the sauce doesn’t boil; simmer gently.
– Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness (165°F).
– Don’t skip seasoning the chicken before cooking.
– If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of chicken broth to loosen it.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in ranch dressing for a few hours before cooking.
– Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance presentation.
– Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
– Adjust the spices to your taste preferences.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
What sides go well with creamy ranch chicken?
Some great sides include roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork chops or turkey cutlets as alternatives to chicken.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy ranch flavor is usually a hit with kids, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the ranch dressing for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This creamy ranch chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Serve it up with your choice of sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Creamy Ranch Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add ranch dressing and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Nutrition
