Description
This Creamy Ranch Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated in a rich, flavorful ranch-infused cream sauce. The chicken is first seared for a golden-brown crust then baked to juicy perfection in a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning. Garnished with fresh parsley, this comforting dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after searing.
- Season Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for optimal flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and sear each side for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is nicely browned but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning packet. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated completely with the creamy ranch sauce.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the entire skillet into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing for a smoother sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is fully cooked at 165°F (75°C).
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken with the spices for 30 minutes before searing.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer chicken and sauce to a baking dish before baking.
