Delight in the simplicity of Creamy Ranch Chicken — a hearty, flavor-packed dish that brings comfort to your dinner table in just 25 minutes. Tender pan-seared chicken breasts are smothered in a zesty, creamy ranch sauce made with garlic, herbs, sour cream, and a touch of butter. Every bite is rich, tangy, and irresistibly satisfying — the perfect weeknight dinner you’ll make again and again.
A Family Favorite Reimagined
When I think of home, I think of this dish. Growing up, my mom’s creamy ranch chicken was one of those comforting meals that could turn any gloomy day around. I remember walking into our farmhouse kitchen after a chilly, rain-soaked day — the air filled with the scent of garlic and herbs simmering on the stove.
Mom would smile as she spooned the rich sauce over a pile of mashed potatoes, and just like that, the world felt a little cozier. Now, every time I make this recipe, it’s like wrapping myself in that same warmth all over again.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ranch Chicken
This dish checks all the boxes — easy, flavorful, and family-approved:
- Quick & Easy: Dinner’s ready in about 25 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
- Incredible Flavor: The combo of fresh garlic, herbs, and ranch seasoning gives this creamy sauce its irresistible tang and depth.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes — it pairs beautifully with just about anything.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick overview of the simple ingredients that make this recipe shine:
For the Chicken:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and sliced thin for even cooking.
- Garlic Powder & Mixed Herbs: Build a savory base flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil & Butter: Help sear the chicken to golden perfection while adding richness.
For the Ranch Sauce:
- Minced Garlic: Brings a bold, aromatic kick.
- Flour: Thickens the sauce to a velvety texture.
- Chicken Stock: Use homemade or low-sodium stock for the best flavor.
- Sour Cream: Adds tang and creaminess.
- Ranch Seasoning: The key to that signature zesty ranch flavor.
How to Make Creamy Ranch Chicken
This dish comes together quickly and easily — here’s how:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Slice each chicken breast horizontally to make thinner cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. - Season:
Mix together garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning over both sides of the chicken. - Sear:
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. - Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook briefly, then slowly whisk in the chicken stock until smooth and slightly thickened. - Add Creaminess:
Lower the heat and stir in sour cream and ranch seasoning. Whisk until smooth and creamy. - Combine:
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer for a minute or two to soak up all the flavor.
Serve hot, with plenty of that creamy ranch sauce drizzled on top!
Tips & Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Add a Kick: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- Herb Swap: Try thyme, dill, or tarragon for a fresh twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms or tofu.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken stock to loosen the sauce if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Ranch Chicken with:
- Fluffy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- Garlic bread
- A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables
Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mixed herbs
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tbsp butter
For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook briefly.
- Slowly whisk in chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer until thickened.
- Lower heat, add sour cream and ranch seasoning, and whisk until smooth.
- Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over, and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Serve hot.