Ranch Chicken Bites

An effortless weeknight meal, these Ranch Chicken Bites use a homemade ranch seasoning and are made easily in one skillet with a quick cream sauce.

One of the greatest joys I get as a recipe developer is when somebody makes a recipe of mine, and lets me know. It never gets old.

But, what is even more special is when somebody in my family makes a recipe of mine and tells me about it. And when they then make that recipe part of their standard recipe rotation, it really just melts my heart.

My sister, and best friend, Katie (who also helps edit the articles on my two websites) frequently makes my recipes and I always love to hear her thoughts on them. Her favorite is the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, and for good reason: it's a healthy weeknight meal. She suggested I take that recipe and put a few flavor spins on it, and Ranch was her request.

So these Ranch Chicken Bites, are dedicated to her!

They're just as simple as the original Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, but with a homemade ranch seasoning and a simple creamy sauce to serve, all made in one pan.

It's the kind of dinner you make when you want something awesome and delicious, despite being pressed for time. They take just about 15 minutes to make (or less) and pair well with so many sides (like Sour Cream and Onion Mashed Potatoes or Couscous Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumbers and Feta.

Ingredients Needed and Substitutions

Here is a brief overview of the ingredients needed for this recipe. The full recipe with quantities is listed below this text in the recipe card. If substitutions are available for this recipe, they'll be listed here. If you don't see a substitution you are looking for, please leave a comment below.

• chicken breasts (you can substitute in chicken thighs if that's what you prefer)
• garlic (fresh and powder for extra garlic flavor)
• butter
• salt + pepper
• lemon (this helps balance the whole dish out, so don't skip it)
• dry buttermilk powder (this is something not everyone is going to have in their pantry, but it's a big part of the ranch flavor. It can be skipped, but you'll lose out on an essential flavor--see more below about making the spice mix)
• spices: garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried dill, paprika
• cream cheese (this is the key to the super simple creamy sauce)
• chives (for garnish)

Making the Ranch Seasoning

To make your chicken taste like ranch, a homemade dry ranch spice blend is essential.

Dry buttermilk powder is the largest component of the mix, and gives the seasoning that tangy creamy taste. I recognize that it's not a very common ingredient to have in your pantry. I don't recommend skipping it, but the recipe can be completed without it if you don't want to purchase it. It just won't taste quite like classic ranch.

Homemade ranch seasoning is awesome, and if you wanted, you could do a little math and increase the proportions to make it.

Can I Use Store-Bought?

You might also be wondering if you can use store-bought ranch seasoning for this recipe and the answer is: most definitely. You'll need 3 heaping tablespoons of ranch seasoning to make this chicken recipe.

The Secret To Making This Recipe Awesome

There is one important thing you need to know when it comes to cooking chicken breasts--don't overcook them. Overcooked chicken is so tough and just not good.

This chicken breast recipe is diced for faster cooking, but that also means that the chicken breasts can easily overcook as well.

The best way to tell if your chicken is done is with an instant-read thermometer. If you don't have one already, it's worth the minor investment.

The chicken should be cooked lightly, instead of a deep sear. This is to not overpower the ranch flavor (and light color). Cook over medium heat, about 2-3 minutes per side, until the chicken just reaches 165ºF.

Storing Chicken Bites

This Ranch Chicken is best served right after it is made. That is because chicken breasts can overcook quickly (see up top) so it's going to taste best fresh since it won't take well to reheating.

However, chicken bite leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or in a toaster oven. The lower the heat the better, but it's inevitable that they will be tougher once reheated.

Quick Sides and Serving Ideas

For the ultimate fast dinner, serve this chicken dish with a quick side salad. If you want a heartier dinner, here are some side dish options on this site:

• Simple Coleslaw with Dill
• Favorite Chickpea Salad
• Creamy Macaroni Salad
• Sour Cream and Onion Mashed Potatoes
• Cucumber Avocado Salad
• Baked Parmesan Potato Wedges

Making the recipe? Be sure to leave a comment with a star review on your experience! Have a question? Leave a comment below and I'll get back to you as quickly as I can!

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