Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet: A Simple, One-Pan Dinner Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about a hearty, flavorful skillet meal that you can make in one pan with minimal cleanup. If you’re craving a dish that’s quick, easy, and filled with rich, creamy flavors, then this Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet is the answer. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, savory ranch seasoning, and perfectly cooked rice, all in one skillet. It’s a comforting meal that the whole family will love, and it’s ready in under 40 minutes.

Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy weeknight dinner or need a simple meal for meal prepping, Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. With the combination of savory ranch seasoning, gooey cheddar cheese, and hearty rice, it’s a flavorful dish that doesn’t require much effort but delivers big on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet

Let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet. These simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients come together for a quick and satisfying meal.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  The chicken provides the protein for the dish. Cutting it into bite-sized pieces allows for quick cooking and better flavor absorption.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  Olive oil is perfect for sautéing the chicken and creating a slight crisp on the outside, while keeping the meat juicy inside.
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  The ranch seasoning adds that distinct zesty, savory flavor that makes this dish stand out. It’s the perfect seasoning to complement the chicken and rice.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
  Long-grain rice works best for this recipe because it remains fluffy and doesn’t clump together.
• 2 cups chicken broth
  Chicken broth infuses the rice with rich flavor and helps cook the rice to the perfect texture. You can use low-sodium broth to control the salt levels in the dish.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  The star ingredient! The melted cheddar cheese adds creaminess and a rich, gooey texture that binds everything together.
• 1/2 cup milk
  The milk adds to the creamy texture and ensures the cheese melts smoothly into the dish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  A basic seasoning to enhance the flavor of all the ingredients.
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  Chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy, cheesy dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet

Making Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet is as simple as it gets. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to preparing this savory meal:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, making sure to season them with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned on the outside and cooked through. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. This helps keep the chicken juicy and tender while preparing the rice.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In the same skillet, add the 1 cup of rice and 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix. Stir the rice to coat it in the seasoning, allowing the grains to absorb the flavors. Then, add the 2 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Once it begins to simmer, cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 15–18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Keep the heat on low to ensure the rice cooks evenly without burning.

Step 3: Combine Chicken, Cheese, and Milk

Once the rice is cooked, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of milk. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes creamy. The milk will add the perfect amount of creaminess to the dish, making it feel indulgent without being overly heavy.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Before serving, garnish the dish with some freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color. Serve the Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet hot and enjoy the deliciously creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet

This recipe is the definition of comfort food. Here’s why Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet should be on your dinner rotation:

1. Quick and Easy: In less than 40 minutes, you can have a warm, comforting meal ready for the whole family. No need for complicated prep work or multiple pots and pans.
2. One-Pan Wonder: This dish is cooked entirely in one skillet, which makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, all the ingredients cook together, so the flavors meld perfectly.
3. Versatile: You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also swap out the chicken for other proteins like shrimp or turkey.
4. Kid-Friendly: The creamy cheese and ranch seasoning make this dish a hit with kids. It’s the perfect way to introduce them to new flavors in a way they’ll love.
5. Comforting and Filling: The combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and melted cheese makes this dish incredibly filling and satisfying. It’s the perfect cozy meal after a long day.

FAQs About Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. You’ll need to increase the chicken broth by 1/2 to 1 cup and adjust the cooking time accordingly (around 35-40 minutes).

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the skillet and stir in the cheese and milk to restore the creamy texture.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables such as peas, spinach, or bell peppers. Simply sauté the veggies with the chicken at the beginning or stir them into the rice while it cooks.

4. Can I use a different cheese?
While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when cooking the chicken. This will add a nice kick to the dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet is a perfect meal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or when you want to serve something comforting and delicious with minimal effort. It combines simple ingredients in a way that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The creamy cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning create a satisfying dish that everyone at the table will love. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can make it your own by adding vegetables or swapping out proteins.

If you’re looking for a one-pan meal that’s easy, flavorful, and filling, this Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Rice Skillet is the recipe you need to try today!

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