Craving a comforting meal that’s both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole! Combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch flavors, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this casserole brings all the flavors together in one hearty dish. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of the casserole):
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 28g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: 900mg
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon.
3. Add the ranch dressing and softened cream cheese, mixing until well blended.
4. Stir in the cooked rice or pasta, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
10. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this casserole by using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lighter option. Additionally, substituting quinoa or cauliflower rice can make it a healthier choice.
Serving and Pairings
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls for an extra hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to cover it well.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender.
– Don’t skip the cream cheese; it adds creaminess.
– Use low-sodium bacon and ranch dressing to control salt levels.
– Ensure the casserole is well mixed for even flavor distribution.
– Let the casserole cool before serving to help it set.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
– For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.
– Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
– Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick prep.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole?
This dish goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I use different meats?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even shredded pork for a different flavor profile.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, most kids love the flavors of ranch and bacon, making it a popular choice for family dinners.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a delightful amalgamation of flavors that can easily become a family favorite. With its creamy texture and savory ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, this casserole is sure to impress!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon.
- Add the ranch dressing and softened cream cheese, mixing until well blended.
- Stir in the cooked rice or pasta, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
