Description
This Creamy Ranch Chicken recipe features tender seared chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy ranch sauce made with chicken broth and cream, topped with melted shredded cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are nearly cooked through.
- Prepare Creamy Ranch Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. To the skillet, add the ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine and Melt Cheese: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts thoroughly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the creamy ranch chicken hot, spooning the sauce over each piece, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Use any shredded cheese you prefer such as mozzarella, Monterey jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- If ranch seasoning mix is unavailable, you can make your own with dried parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper.
- For a lower-fat option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less thick.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
