Name: Creamy Ranch Chicken with Rice and Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 teaspoon dried dill; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 1/2 cups green peas (steamed or boiled)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Simple steps with minimal prep time make this recipe perfect for busy days.
Family-Friendly: The creamy ranch sauce and classic sides of rice and peas are sure to please even picky eaters.
Customizable: You can switch up the vegetables or even use your favorite type of rice.
Comforting: A warm, creamy meal that feels like a big hug on a plate.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

4 boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the creamy ranch sauce:

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the sides:

2 cups cooked rice
1 1/2 cups green peas (steamed or boiled)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Deglaze the Skillet: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Add heavy cream, parsley, dill, onion powder, and garlic powder. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Simmer for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Serve: Plate the chicken over the rice, add a side of steamed peas, and drizzle with the creamy ranch sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

Variations

Protein Swap: Use boneless thighs, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Vegetable Options: Replace peas with broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
Low-Carb Alternative: Serve the chicken with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ranch sauce for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

2. Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead?

For convenience, you can use store-bought ranch dressing, but the homemade sauce adds a fresher flavor.

3. How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

4. Can I freeze this dish?

The chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly.

5. What type of rice works best?

White rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice are great choices for this recipe.

6. Can I use frozen peas?

Absolutely. Just steam or boil them before serving.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

8. Can I use low-fat cream?

Low-fat cream can be used, but the sauce may not be as rich or thick.

9. What herbs can I substitute?

Fresh parsley and dill can replace dried herbs for a fresher taste.

10. Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, a sprinkle of Parmesan can enhance the sauce’s flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Ranch Chicken with Rice and Peas is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, homemade ranch sauce, tender chicken, and simple yet satisfying sides, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!