Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Ranch Chicken recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner! Tender, juicy chicken breasts are seared and then simmered in a rich, creamy ranch sauce made with sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and ranch seasoning mix. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s full of flavor and sure to please the whole family. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, making it a go-to choice for busy nights. Creamy ranch chicken delivers the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Perfect for those searching for easy chicken recipes, creamy chicken dinners, and ranch chicken, this recipe guarantees a tasty and comforting meal every time.

Ingredients

Chicken

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

Sauce

• 10.5 oz. can cream of chicken soup
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 oz. packet ranch seasoning mix (about 3 tablespoons)

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Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken

• Slice each chicken breast into 2-3 thinner slices, aiming for about ½ inch thickness. You can also use a meat tenderizer to ensure even cooking.
• Season both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush one side with melted butter (make sure the butter isn’t too hot).
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, buttered side down, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until a golden brown crust forms.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
  Pro Tip: Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning the chicken. Let the chicken sear undisturbed for the best crust.

2. Make the Sauce

• After removing the chicken, drain any excess oil from the pan if needed.
• Add the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, onion powder, and ranch seasoning mix to the pan. Stir everything together until smooth.
• Let the sauce bubble gently for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
• Return the chicken to the pan, spoon the sauce over the top, and cover the skillet partially. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes to heat through and absorb the flavors.

3. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the creamy ranch chicken over mashed potatoes, rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables. For an extra treat, spoon the leftover sauce over the potatoes for added richness!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy ranch chicken is simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The creamy ranch sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
• Comfort Food: The combination of creamy sauce and seared chicken makes this dish feel like a warm, cozy meal that everyone will love.

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Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother sauce, ensure the sour cream is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce.
• Chicken Thickness: Make sure the chicken slices are about ½ inch thick for even cooking. If they are too thick, they may need more time to cook through.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Alternatives: You can substitute the chicken with pork chops or turkey breasts for a different twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
• Dairy-Free: Use a non-dairy sour cream and milk alternative to make the recipe dairy-free.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking for even cooking and better results. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up and add the chicken when ready to serve.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted potatoes or baked potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced, delicious meal.
• For a lighter option, serve over cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles).

This Creamy Ranch Chicken is sure to become a family favorite, offering comfort, flavor, and easy prep for any night of the week!