Indulge in this creamy ranch chicken recipe, where tender chicken meets a luscious ranch-flavored sauce. This dish is not only comforting but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Whether served over rice, pasta, or veggies, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of protein, 25g of fat, 5g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side.
- In a bowl, mix together ranch dressing, cream, and garlic powder.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet and transfer it to the oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or sour cream. You can also use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy ranch chicken pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken.
- Avoid high heat to prevent burning the sauce.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked for safety.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs in the sauce.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce with more cream or broth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
Is this dish spicy?
No, this creamy ranch chicken is mild; however, you can add hot sauce for an extra kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then bake it just before serving.
What can I serve with creamy ranch chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a side salad for a complete meal.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Conclusion
This creamy ranch chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that is both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for any night of the week, it promises to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the smiles it brings!
Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side.
- In a bowl, mix together ranch dressing, cream, and garlic powder.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet and transfer it to the oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
