Pin This cozy pickle ranch chicken and rice skillet has become my weeknight dinner hero, combining creamy ranch-seasoned rice with juicy chicken and the unexpected zing of pickles in one satisfying pan.
I first created this dish during a particularly hectic week when I needed something my pickle-obsessed teenager would actually eat. The unexpected combination was such a hit that it's now requested at least twice a month in our rotation.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into pieces these stay tender throughout cooking and absorb the flavors beautifully
- Dill pickles and pickle juice the secret ingredients that give this dish its unique tangy character
- Long grain white rice absorbs all the flavors while maintaining perfect texture
- Dry ranch seasoning mix provides an instant flavor boost with herbs and spices in one convenient package
- Sour cream and cheddar cheese create the creamy, rich texture that makes this dish so comforting
- Aromatics like onion and garlic build the flavor foundation for the entire dish
- Chicken broth infuses the rice with savory goodness as it cooks
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Season chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper before adding to the hot pan. Cook just until the outside develops a light golden color about 4 minutes. The chicken should not be fully cooked at this stage. Remove to a plate and set aside.
- Build the Flavor Base
- In the same skillet without wiping it clean add the diced onion. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
- Combine Key Ingredients
- Add the diced pickles rice ranch seasoning and dried dill to the skillet. Pour in the pickle juice and stir everything together. This step allows the rice to start absorbing those tangy pickle flavors and the dry seasonings to bloom in the moisture.
- Add Liquid and Return Chicken
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Return the partially cooked chicken pieces along with any accumulated juices back to the skillet. These juices contain valuable flavor.
- Slow Cook to Perfection
- Reduce the
between heat to low cover the skillet with a tight fitting lid and let everything cook undisturbed for 18 to 20 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and become tender while the chicken finishes cooking through. - Create Creamy Finish
- Remove the skillet from heat completely. Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese until they melt into the hot rice creating a creamy luxurious texture throughout the dish. This off heat addition prevents the dairy from curdling.
- Final Seasoning and Garnish
- Taste the finished dish and adjust seasonings if needed. Sometimes a little extra salt or pepper makes all the difference. Garnish with additional pickle slices and fresh dill if desired for extra visual appeal and flavor bursts.
Pin The pickle juice is truly the unsung hero of this recipe. I discovered its magic by accident when I was short on broth one evening and needed extra liquid. Now I actually keep pickle juice in my refrigerator specifically for recipes like this one where it adds that perfect tangy brightness.
Storage and Reheating
This skillet meal stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight as the pickle and ranch notes meld together more deeply. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out, and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave at 50% power. Stir occasionally during reheating to distribute heat evenly.
Smart Substitutions
This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have on hand. Greek yogurt works perfectly in place of sour cream for a higher protein option. Bread and butter pickles can replace dill pickles for a slightly sweeter profile that kids often prefer. Brown rice can substitute for white rice, but you'll need to increase the cooking time by about 15 minutes and possibly add an extra 1/4 cup of broth. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of sour cream and a plant-based cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions
While this one-pan wonder is a complete meal on its own, I love serving it with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to complement the creamy main dish. For a heartier meal, add a side of garlic bread to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce. During summer months, this pairs beautifully with sliced fresh tomatoes sprinkled with a little salt and pepper. For entertaining, serve in a large rustic bowl in the center of the table with extra pickles on the side for pickle enthusiasts.
Kid-Friendly Adaptations
If your children are pickle-hesitant, you can easily adapt this recipe to be more kid-friendly. Reduce the amount of diced pickles to 1/2 cup and chop them very finely so they blend into the sauce. Keep the pickle juice the same as it adds flavor without the texture some kids might object to. Consider using chicken tenders cut into bite-sized pieces as they tend to be more appealing to young eaters. Let children add their own cheese on top, which often increases their willingness to try new dishes.
Pin This cozy pickle ranch chicken and rice skillet has become my weeknight dinner hero, combining creamy ranch-seasoned rice with juicy chicken and the unexpected zing of pickles in one satisfying pan.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, both boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Thighs add extra juiciness to the dish.
- → Is this skillet gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free ranch mix and chicken broth. Always check labels.
- → How can I make this lighter?
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese for a lighter option.
- → What side dishes pair well?
A side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty gluten-free bread are great choices. It also pairs with white wine.
- → Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, add the cooked chicken in step 5 with the broth to heat through without overcooking.
- → How do I add extra crunch?
Sprinkle crushed potato chips or fried onions over the finished skillet just before serving.