This creamy ranch chicken is a delicious dish, packed with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are tender and quick to cook. If you prefer, you can use thighs for extra juiciness or even turkey breasts as a substitute.
Ranch Seasoning: This adds a rich, herby flavor. If you don’t have a packet, you can mix equal parts of dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and dill for a homemade version.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative too if needed.
Chicken Broth: You can replace it with vegetable broth for a different flavor, or even water in a pinch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but garlic powder can work in a hurry. Just use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the fresh cloves.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
The key to juicy chicken is cooking it well but not too much. Start by heating the oil in a skillet on medium heat.
- Season the chicken breast well on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Add them to the hot skillet, and let them cook without moving for the first few minutes to get golden brown.
- Turn them over and cook the other side. Check for doneness by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Once cooked, letting the chicken rest before slicing or serving helps keep it juicy. Finally, don’t forget that simmering the chicken in the creamy sauce allows it to soak up more flavor!
How to Make Creamy Ranch Chicken with Garlic and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy ranch chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil is heating, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Creating the Garlic Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn; you want it fragrant and golden. This garlic will add wonderful flavor to the sauce!
3. Mixing the Sauce:
Next, add the ranch seasoning mix along with the dried parsley, dill, and thyme to the skillet. Stir everything well to combine with the garlic. Then, pour in the chicken broth and the heavy cream, mixing it all together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, which will allow the flavors to meld and create that rich, creamy sauce you’re after.
4. Simmering the Chicken:
Once the sauce is simmering, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat it evenly. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes. This step helps intensify the flavors while the sauce thickens a bit.
5. Finishing Touches:
Before serving, garnish the creamy ranch chicken with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It’s now ready to enjoy!
6. Serving Your Dish:
Serve the creamy ranch chicken hot, with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Yes! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe, you can also use thighs or other cuts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as darker meat may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used. However, the sauce may not be as thick. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well and adds a nice flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Ranch Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over pasta or quinoa for a hearty meal!
