This Creamy Ranch Chicken is a family favorite! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a blend of creamy ranch goodness that’s simply delicious and super satisfying.
I love how easy this dish is to make. Just toss the chicken in a pan, add the sauce, and let it bubble away. Perfect on rice or with veggies for a yummy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice as they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. If you need a substitute, consider turkey cutlets or thighs for richer flavor, or use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Ranch Dressing Mix: The ranch dressing mix provides a tasty, creamy base. If you don’t have it, you can make a homemade version using garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and salt. Take a look at your spice cabinet; you might already have these!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for lighter options, opt for half-and-half, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that coconut milk will bring a distinct flavor.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a nice crunch. You can substitute them with frozen green beans if you’re in a pinch. Just cook them according to package directions, and they’ll work wonderfully in this dish!
How Do I Create a Rich, Creamy Sauce Without It Separating?
Getting that creamy, rich sauce is all about the right techniques. Here’s a simple guide to achieve that perfect consistency:
- Start by sautéing minced garlic first to infuse flavor into the oil.
- Always mix the ranch dressing powder with the liquid ingredients (chicken broth and heavy cream) thoroughly to prevent clumping.
- Cook on medium heat, avoiding high heat which can cause the cream to separate, leading to a less smooth texture.
- Let it simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken and combine flavors. Stir occasionally.
Taking your time during this step will help you achieve that perfect creamy sauce.
How to Make Creamy Ranch Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch dressing mix (dry)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sides:
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30–40 minutes to cook everything. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 1 hour, perfect for a satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes on each side. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the ranch dressing mix, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Mix everything well and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling the breasts in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes so the chicken can soak up all those delicious flavors from the sauce.
4. Cook the Green Beans:
While the chicken is simmering, prepare the green beans. You can steam or blanch them in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Once cooked, drain the beans and season them with a little salt and pepper.
5. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash your russet potatoes thoroughly and prick them with a fork to allow steam to escape. You can microwave them on high for 8-10 minutes or until tender, turning them halfway through. If you prefer baking, place them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45-60 minutes until they are cooked through.
6. Serve:
To serve, place a juicy chicken breast on each plate. Spoon some of the creamy ranch sauce over the top, and add a generous helping of the steamed green beans and baked potatoes alongside. For extra flavor, you can add more ranch sauce to the potatoes!
7. Garnish:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the chicken for a lovely burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your Creamy Ranch Chicken, and savor the rich, comforting taste!
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?
While you can substitute low-fat milk for heavy cream, the sauce will be thinner and less rich. To maintain some creaminess, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in a bit of the chicken broth to thicken the sauce. Just add it in with the milk and keep stirring until it reaches your desired consistency!
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing Mix?
No worries! You can create a homemade ranch seasoning by mixing together 1 teaspoon each of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. This will give you a similar flavor, though you can adjust the amounts according to your taste. Just be sure to blend everything well before adding it to the sauce!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warming slowly on the stove is best to maintain sauce consistency. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture while reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. Just steam or blanch them in the same way as the green beans and add them alongside the chicken. This will enhance the meal with more colors, flavors, and nutrients!
