Description
Tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy ranch-flavored sauce made with cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. This easy comfort-food dinner is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights, offering a luscious, satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ tsp black pepper
Cooking Fat
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, extra creamy)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional Toppings
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with black pepper to enhance their natural flavor without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and partially cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to maintain the flavor’s sweetness.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet, which adds depth to the sauce.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and velvety. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the sauce.
- Add Heavy Cream: If you prefer a richer sauce, stir in the heavy cream at this point, blending it well with the other ingredients.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s fully cooked and tender.
- Top with Cheese: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and cover the skillet briefly to allow the cheese to melt and become gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor. Serve warm over your favorite side like mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Serve the dish over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice depending on dietary preference.
- For additional flavor, add bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
