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Ranch Chicken Recipe - Creamy, Savory, and Weeknight Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 thighs)
  • Ranch seasoning: 1 packet (about 1 ounce) or 3 tablespoons homemade dry mix
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon (smoked or sweet)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Chicken broth: 1 cup (low sodium)
  • Heavy cream or half-and-half: 1/2 cup
  • Parmesan cheese: 1/3 cup, finely grated (optional but great)
  • Fresh lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (optional, for brightness)
  • Fresh parsley or chives: for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels so it sears well.
  2. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  3. Sear for flavor: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When hot, add chicken and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Don’t cook through yet. Transfer chicken to a plate.
  4. Build the sauce base: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth and scrape the browned bits with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Make it creamy: Lower heat and stir in cream (or half-and-half). If using Parmesan, whisk it in until smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. The sauce should be well-seasoned and slightly thickened.
  6. Return chicken to the pan: Nestle the chicken into the sauce. Spoon some sauce on top of each piece. If using lemon juice, drizzle it in now for brightness.
  7. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake 12–18 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Rest and garnish: Let the chicken rest 5 minutes in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives.
  9. Serve: Spoon extra sauce over the chicken. Pair with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, or roasted green beans.