Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Convenience – Less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor – The ranch seasoning adds a delicious tang to the creamy sauce.
- Family-Friendly – A meal that both kids and adults will love.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work.
- Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to fit dietary needs or personal preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil or butter
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream or milk
- Cooked rice
- Frozen peas
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let the chicken simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, letting it thicken for a few minutes.
- Add the cooked rice and peas, stirring to combine everything.
- If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and mix until melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Use Different Proteins – Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs, turkey, or even tofu.
- Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Cheesy Twist – Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
- Low-Carb Option – Replace rice with cauliflower rice or skip it altogether.
- Add More Veggies – Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach make great additions.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of seasoning mix?
Yes, but it will make the dish thinner. Reduce the amount of cream or broth to balance it out.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust accordingly.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the rice and peas before serving.
What can I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this creamy meal.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream.
Will frozen peas become mushy?
No, as long as you add them towards the end of cooking and just warm them through.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Just skip the searing step and add shredded rotisserie chicken when mixing in the rice and peas.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use less cream, opt for brown rice, and add more vegetables for a nutrient boost.
Conclusion
Creamy Ranch Chicken with Rice and Peas is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try different variations to keep it exciting, and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and convenient!
Print
Creamy Ranch Chicken with Rice and Peas
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Ranch Chicken with Rice and Peas recipe combines tender chicken, a tangy ranch-seasoned sauce, creamy rice, and sweet peas, making it the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights. With its rich flavor and minimal cleanup, this comforting dinner is a family-friendly favorite that’s ready in under an hour. Customize it with different proteins, add extra veggies, or swap ingredients to suit dietary needs. Whether you make it spicy or cheesy, this recipe will quickly become a weeknight staple!
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil or butter
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream or milk
- Cooked rice (white or brown)
- Frozen peas
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let the chicken simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and let it thicken for a few minutes.
- Add the cooked rice and peas, stirring until everything is well combined.
- If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and stir until melted and creamy.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs or even tofu for a different protein.
- This dish can be made dairy-free by using coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
