Ingredients
Scale
For the Creamy Ranch Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (for an earthy flavor boost)
- 1 cup spinach (adds a pop of color and nutrients)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra cheesiness)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. (Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked yet—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.) Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Build the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are flavor gold!
- Whisk in the ranch seasoning mix until fully dissolved. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth base.
- Add the cream cheese in small chunks, whisking until completely melted and incorporated into the sauce.
3. Simmer the Chicken:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, along with any juices that may have collected on the plate.
- Lower the heat and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and optional add-ins like mushrooms or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F), remove it from the heat.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4