Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Chicken bacon ranch casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish that combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and the bold flavor of ranch seasoning. This comfort-food favorite is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor-packed: The combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch is a crowd-pleaser.
  • Quick and easy: Comes together in about 30 minutes.
  • Family-friendly: A dish everyone will enjoy, even picky eaters.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the flavors to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
  • Cooked bacon, crumbled
  • Cream cheese, softened
  • Ranch dressing or ranch seasoning mix
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Heavy cream or milk
  • Optional: Steamed broccoli or cauliflower for added veggies
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch dressing or seasoning mix, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
  3. Assemble the casserole: Add cooked chicken, bacon, and any optional vegetables to the bowl. Stir until evenly coated with the sauce.
  4. Layer in the dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
  6. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

  • Low-carb: Replace ranch dressing with homemade keto-friendly ranch and skip any starchy add-ins.
  • Vegetable-packed: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost.
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
  • BBQ Ranch Twist: Swap some ranch dressing for BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
  • Pasta Option: Add cooked pasta like penne or rotini to make it a hearty pasta bake.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

What type of bacon is best?

Thick-cut bacon provides the best flavor and texture, but any variety will work.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese, cheese, and milk alternatives.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It’s naturally gluten-free as long as the ranch dressing or seasoning is certified gluten-free.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Yes, crushed pork rinds, breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions make excellent toppings.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for different flavors.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey is a great substitute and works perfectly in this dish.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

Use reduced-fat cream cheese, lean turkey bacon, and add extra vegetables.

Conclusion

Chicken bacon ranch casserole is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd. Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly good, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal!

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Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and ranch-seasoned cheese sauce combine for a comforting, satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
  • 1/2 cup green onions (sliced, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Mix the sauce: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, half of the bacon, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
  4. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining crumbled bacon and green onions. Serve immediately with a side salad or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Notes

  • Substitute ranch dressing with a homemade version for added freshness.
  • For extra veggies, stir in chopped broccoli or spinach before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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