Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a quick, comforting, and flavorful dinner, this Creamy Ranch Chicken recipe is perfect for you. With tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy ranch sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy the entire family. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking for a special comfort food dish, this recipe is a delicious choice.

Let’s dive into the details and show you how to make this irresistibly creamy chicken dish!

Ingredients for Creamy Ranch Chicken

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this mouthwatering chicken recipe:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless/skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (you can substitute with vegetable or canola oil)

For the Creamy Ranch Sauce:

• 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 cup sour cream (make sure it’s at room temperature for easier blending)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 oz. packet Ranch seasoning mix (about 3 tablespoons)

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To ensure you prepare this recipe without any hiccups, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Meat tenderizer (optional)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Spatula or tongs
• Small whisk or spoon for mixing sauce

Step-by-Step Preparation for Creamy Ranch Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing each chicken breast into 2-3 thinner pieces. If the pieces are too thick, gently pound them with a meat tenderizer until they are about ½ inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly.

Once your chicken is prepped, season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Next, brush one side of each chicken slice with melted butter. Be sure that the butter is warm, not hot, to avoid burning.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces with the buttered side facing down. Make sure you leave space between the chicken slices for even browning.

Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, allowing a golden-brown crust to form. Avoid moving the chicken too much—let it sear properly. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when the chicken easily releases from the pan. If it sticks, let it cook a little longer.

Once browned on both sides, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Repeat this process if you’re working in batches.

Creating the Creamy Ranch Sauce

1. Combine the Ingredients

After removing the chicken from the pan, pour out any excess oil, leaving just enough to prevent sticking. Lower the heat to medium and add the sauce ingredients: cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, onion powder, and Ranch seasoning mix.

Whisk the sauce ingredients together until smooth and combined. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking.

2. Thicken the Sauce

Allow the sauce to bubble and reduce for about 5 minutes. This will thicken it slightly and enhance the flavors. Once the sauce reaches a creamy consistency, you’re ready to add the chicken back to the skillet.

3. Add the Chicken

Place the seared chicken pieces back into the sauce, spooning the sauce over the top. Partially cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes. This will allow the chicken to absorb all those creamy, ranch-infused flavors.

Final Cooking Tips for Tender Chicken

• Adjust heat as needed: If the sauce reduces too quickly, lower the heat or add a splash of milk to thin it out.
• Don’t overcook: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the heat. Overcooking can dry out the chicken, so keep an eye on it as it simmers.
• Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors fully meld together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Thinly sliced chicken cooks quickly, so avoid leaving it in the pan for too long.
• Using cold sour cream: Make sure your sour cream is at room temperature before mixing it into the sauce to prevent curdling.
• Skipping the sear: Searing the chicken before adding it to the sauce is crucial for locking in moisture and adding a flavorful crust.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Creamy Ranch Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Baked potatoes: Spoon the creamy ranch sauce over baked potatoes for a hearty and delicious side.
• Rice or pasta: Serve the chicken over white rice or pasta to soak up the extra sauce.
• Steamed vegetables: Add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans.

For an elevated presentation, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the top of the chicken for a burst of color and freshness.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Creamy Ranch Chicken stores well and reheats beautifully.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Here are a few ideas for customizing your Creamy Ranch Chicken:

• Add vegetables: Stir in some frozen peas, mushrooms, or spinach into the sauce for a veggie boost.
• Swap the seasoning: If you’re out of Ranch seasoning, try using an Italian dressing mix for a different flavor twist.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.

FAQ for Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and provide a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.

Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Sear the chicken on the sauté setting, then add the sauce ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 6-8 minutes, followed by a quick release.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce. Alternatively, you can stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it further.

Conclusion

This Creamy Ranch Chicken recipe is everything you want in a comforting, easy-to-make dinner. Packed with flavor and featuring a luscious, creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to the blog for more delicious meal ideas!

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