Are you craving a delicious yet easy dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further! Hidden Valley Ranch dressing isn't just for salads; it's a secret weapon for adding incredible flavor to your favorite chicken dishes. These chicken recipes with Hidden Valley Ranch are quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. Get ready to elevate your chicken game!
Creamy Ranch Chicken Bake: A Comfort Food Classic
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a comforting and flavorful chicken bake that’s surprisingly simple to make. It's the perfect example of how a little Hidden Valley Ranch can transform a simple dish into something truly special.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes (longer is better!).
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour and black pepper. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking dish.
- In the same skillet, whisk in the cream of mushroom soup until smooth. Pour the soup over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika to the flour mixture.
- Substitute different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Colby Jack, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add cooked vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or potatoes to make this a complete meal.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful dish. Just increase the baking time accordingly.
Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwiches: A Quick and Easy Lunch or Dinner
This recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and easy lunch or light dinner. It's perfect for using leftover chicken, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup Hidden Valley Ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bread or rolls of your choice
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Hidden Valley Ranch dressing, celery, red onion, and parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix well to combine.
- Serve on your favorite bread or rolls. Add lettuce and tomato for extra freshness.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving – Creamy Ranch Chicken Bake):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
These are just two examples of the many delicious and easy chicken recipes you can create using Hidden Valley Ranch. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your new favorite dish! Enjoy your homemade cooking!