Ranch Chicken and Gravy

Ranch Chicken and Gravy is a delightful dish that brings comfort to your table any day of the week. This meal features tender chicken simmered in a creamy ranch gravy, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, ensuring it will be a hit among all ages. Serve it over cheesy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors – The creamy ranch gravy and tender chicken create a warm, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
• Quick and Easy – With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe makes weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors, making it a great choice for family meals.
• Versatile Serving Options – Pair it with your favorite sides or serve it over rice or pasta for a different twist.
• Make Ahead Friendly – Prepare the chicken and gravy in advance, then reheat for an easy meal on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet – Perfect for browning chicken and simmering the gravy; ensures even cooking.
• Mixing bowl – Great for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Potato masher – Makes whipping up smooth mashed potatoes quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for precise ingredient measurements to achieve the best flavor.

Ingredients

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 Potatoes

Start by peeling and cutting the russet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot filled with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the chicken cutlets with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook them until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant. Stir in cream of chicken soup, milk, Ranch seasoning, onion powder, and optional herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Gravy

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

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

Once potatoes are tender, drain them well. In a mixing bowl, mash the potatoes with half and half, softened butter, garlic powder, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon generous servings of cheesy mashed potatoes onto plates. Top with ranch chicken smothered in gravy for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Ranch Chicken and Gravy

Ranch Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Whether you’re enjoying a family dinner or hosting friends, serving this dish creatively can enhance the experience.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• This classic combination features the creamy gravy poured generously over buttery mashed potatoes, making each bite delightful.

With Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the rich gravy. This option is great for those looking for a lighter alternative to potatoes.

In Tacos

• Transform leftovers into tasty tacos by adding shredded ranch chicken and gravy into soft tortillas. Top with lettuce, cheese, and diced tomatoes for extra flavor.

On Biscuits

• For a Southern twist, serve the ranch chicken and gravy on warm biscuits. The flaky texture complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

With Green Beans

• A simple side of sautéed green beans adds a fresh crunch to your plate, balancing the richness of the chicken and gravy.

In a Casserole

• Layer this dish in a casserole with your favorite vegetables and cheese for a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.

How to Perfect Ranch Chicken and Gravy

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the flavors of your dish significantly.
• Pound Your Chicken: Ensuring your chicken is evenly pounded to 1/4 inch thick helps it cook evenly and stay tender.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go! You can always add more seasoning but removing it can be challenging.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low when simmering your gravy to prevent it from becoming too thick or burning.
• Add Cheese Sparingly: Incorporate shredded cheese gradually into your mashed potatoes for a creamy texture without overwhelming flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your chicken to rest after cooking gives juices time to redistribute for a juicier result.

Best Side Dishes for Ranch Chicken and Gravy

Pairing sides with Ranch Chicken and Gravy can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up excess gravy.
2. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant vegetable adds color and nutrients while balancing out richness with its slight bitterness.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken dish.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors beautifully, making it an ideal summer side.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts bring out earthy flavors that pair well with ranch seasoning.
6. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower mash offers creaminess without all the carbs of traditional mashed potatoes.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon dressing adds freshness to your plate.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with savory ranch chicken, creating a delightful contrast in flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Ranch Chicken and Gravy can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best results.

• Not pounding chicken: Failing to pound chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure they are about 1/4 inch thick for uniform tenderness.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on cooking time and remove the chicken once it’s fully cooked.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping additional seasonings can result in a bland dish. Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Opting for poor-quality chicken or gravy can affect flavor. Invest in good quality ingredients for a richer taste.
• Not allowing gravy to thicken: Rushing the gravy process may leave it watery. Let it simmer until you reach your desired consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Ranch Chicken and Gravy in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Ranch Chicken and Gravy

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Ranch Chicken and Gravy can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Ranch Chicken and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the dish in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ranch Chicken and Gravy?

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

How do I customize my Ranch Chicken and Gravy?

You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition or switch out the seasoning based on your flavor preferences.

Can I use different meats in Ranch Chicken and Gravy?

Yes! You can substitute with turkey or lamb if you prefer those options over chicken.

What should I serve with Ranch Chicken and Gravy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful gravy.

Conclusion

Ranch Chicken and Gravy is a delightful comfort food that is easy to prepare and full of rich flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes, making it perfect for any dinner table. Give this recipe a try for a satisfying meal your loved ones will enjoy!