Easy Ranch Chicken Dinner: Simple Weeknight Meal (Print Version)
Ranch chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. A family-friendly weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Chicken Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Tangy Ranch Sauce
04 -
1 (1-oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
05 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
06 -
1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
07 -
1/4 cup whole milk
→ Cheesy & Aromatic Boosters
08 -
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 -
1 tsp garlic powder
10 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
11 -
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
→ Bright Finishing Touches
12 -
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Pat dry 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. This initial seasoning is crucial for a flavorful Easy Ranch Chicken Recipe.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet (reduce heat to medium-low), add 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream, 1/4 cup whole milk, 1 (1-oz) packet ranch seasoning mix, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This forms the heart of your Easy Ranch Chicken Recipe.
04 -
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the ranch sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for this Easy Ranch Chicken Recipe.
05 -
Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the chicken and sauce. Cover the skillet and continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
06 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the Easy Ranch Chicken Recipe with 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, and 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra tender chicken, consider slicing the breasts in half horizontally before cooking to create thinner cutlets. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
Feel free to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor. You can also swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or a Colby-Jack blend.
04 -
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, a simple side salad, or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet (oven-safe recommended)
02 -
Baking dish (if not using oven-safe skillet)
03 -
Measuring cups and spoons
04 -
Whisk or spoon
05 -
Cutting board
06 -
Chef's knife
07 -
Meat thermometer
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 555 kcal
Total Fat: 30 g
Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
Protein: 60 g