Creamy Ranch Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms everyday chicken into a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. The creamy sauce, enriched with ranch seasoning, complements the golden-brown chicken perfectly. It's an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 10.5 oz. can of cream of chicken soup

• 1½ cups milk

• 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• 1 oz. packet ranch seasoning mix

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast into 2–3 thinner pieces, about ½ inch thick. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush one side of each piece with melted butter.

2. Sear the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, buttered side down, and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, onion powder, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and heated through, about 5 minutes.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece. Cover partially and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors.

5. Serve: Serve the creamy ranch chicken over mashed or baked potatoes, and complement with steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate frozen vegetables like peas or carrots into the sauce during the simmering step for added nutrition.

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.

• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken during the last few minutes of simmering until melted.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the sauce's consistency.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used; adjust cooking time as needed.

Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate. Reheat before serving.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use low-fat versions of the ingredients?

Yes, you can substitute with low-fat versions of cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, steamed broccoli, or green beans complement this dish well.

Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?

Absolutely, homemade ranch seasoning can be used in place of the packet mix.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it's great for meal prep; portion into containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Creamy Ranch Chicken is a delightful and straightforward dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it's sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own.