why make this recipe

Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy flavors, and the crispy goodness of bacon. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This casserole is not only satisfying, but it’s also easy to prepare and can feed a crowd. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken!

how to make Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole

Ingredients :

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch dressing, cooked rice, half of the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
4. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving.

how to serve Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole

Serve the Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole warm. It goes well with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.

how to store Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Make sure to wrap the casserole well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

tips to make Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole

• Use leftover rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep time.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition.
• For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

variation (if any)

You can easily customize this dish. Try mixing in some different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you like, substitute the ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
It’s best to use cooked chicken for this casserole. Uncooked chicken will require longer cooking times and could result in unevenly cooked chicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs nicely with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or even garlic bread for a complete meal.