Ranch Chicken and Gravy

Ranch Chicken and Gravy is the perfect dish for those cozy nights when you crave something hearty and comforting. This delightful recipe features tender chicken simmered in a creamy ranch gravy that practically melts in your mouth. Served over cheesy, buttery mashed potatoes, it’s an ideal meal for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends. The rich flavors and ease of preparation truly make this dish stand out as a comfort food favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ranch seasoning and creamy gravy creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish suits any gathering.
• Comforting & Filling: Rich and hearty, it’s the ultimate comfort food that satisfies even the hungriest appetites.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it an easy choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create this amazing Ranch Chicken and Gravy, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Potato masher
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and simmering the gravy evenly.
• Potato masher: Makes mashing potatoes a breeze, resulting in creamy, smooth mashed potatoes.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Ranch Chicken and Gravy:

For the Chicken and Gravy:

• 1.5 lbs chicken cutlets or breasts (if using breasts pound to 1/4 inch thick)
• 1.5 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1-10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup with herbs
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 oz. packet Ranch Seasoning
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• optional seasoning – 1/4 tsp rubbed or dried sage, 1/4 tsp rosemary, 1/4 tsp thyme
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 3 lbs russet potatoes
• 1 cup half and half
• 6 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 6 oz shredded cheese (gruyere, fontina, or mozzarella)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt (I go less salty since the gravy is plenty salty)
• pepper to taste

How to Make Ranch Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken cutlets with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet once heated. Cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then stir in cream of chicken soup, milk, ranch seasoning, onion powder, and optional herbs until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Gravy

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until heated through and coated in gravy.

Step 5: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken simmers, peel and cube russet potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain well.

Step 6: Mash Potatoes

In a mixing bowl, combine drained potatoes with half-and-half, softened butter, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy.

Step 7: Serve

Plate generous portions of mashed potatoes topped with ranch chicken smothered in gravy. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Ranch Chicken and Gravy

Ranch Chicken and Gravy is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, there are numerous ways to elevate this comforting meal.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Use the cheesy, buttery mashed potatoes from the recipe as a base. The creamy gravy complements the potatoes perfectly.

Over Rice

• Serve the ranch chicken and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice for a lighter option. The rice absorbs the delicious flavors of the gravy.

In a Wrap

• Create a delicious wrap using tortillas filled with shredded ranch chicken and gravy. Add lettuce, tomatoes, or your favorite veggies for extra crunch.

On a Salad

• Top a fresh garden salad with shredded ranch chicken and drizzle some of the gravy on top. This adds richness to your greens.

How to Perfect Ranch Chicken and Gravy

To make sure your Ranch Chicken and Gravy turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and garlic will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Pound Chicken Evenly – Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly and remain tender.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning in the gravy according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the chicken to simmer in the gravy helps it absorb all those wonderful flavors.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different types of cheese for your mashed potatoes, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for varied taste.
• Make Ahead – Prepare the chicken and gravy ahead of time. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Ranch Chicken and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Ranch Chicken and Gravy can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli – A healthy green side that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy; it’s a crowd favorite!
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring sweetness to balance the savory dish.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs beautifully with creamy dishes like this one.
6. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans with almonds offer both flavor and texture to complement the meal.
7. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while being a great gluten-free option.
8. Biscuit Bites – Fluffy biscuits are perfect for mopping up any remaining gravy on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ranch Chicken and Gravy, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can make a big difference in the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to prevent.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. To avoid this, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
• Skipping Seasoning: A bland dish is never appealing. Always season your chicken and gravy well. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional herbs.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients affects the taste of your meal. Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality broth for the best flavor.
• Not Letting Gravy Simmer: Skipping the simmering step can result in a thin gravy. Allow it to simmer to thicken and develop flavors; patience pays off!
• Ignoring Mashed Potato Texture: Lumpy mashed potatoes can ruin your dish’s presentation. Make sure to mash them thoroughly and mix in enough butter and cream for creaminess.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Ranch Chicken and Gravy in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ranch Chicken and Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Ranch Chicken and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a saucepan while stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ranch Chicken and Gravy?

Ranch Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy ranch-flavored gravy, typically served over mashed potatoes.

How do I customize Ranch Chicken and Gravy?

You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition or spice things up with hot sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use different meats for Ranch Chicken and Gravy?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can easily substitute turkey or even lamb for variations on this classic recipe.

How do I make my gravy thicker?

To thicken your gravy, let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water) while stirring constantly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and gravy ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator or freezer, then reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Ranch Chicken and Gravy is not only wholesome but also incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with various sides such as steamed veggies or rice. Feel free to customize your dish by adding favorite herbs or spices. This recipe promises warmth and comfort that everyone will love—give it a try!

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