This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a cozy dish packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch flavor. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes dinner effortless and tasty!
I love making this casserole when I want something hearty without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s a hit with the family—everyone always goes back for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here! It’s easy and full of flavor. If you’re short on time, leftover chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, try using hearty mushrooms or chickpeas instead.
Bacon: Use crispy bacon for that smoky crunch. Turkey bacon can be a lighter choice, or you could leave it out entirely if you want a vegetarian twist. I’ve tried adding crispy onion bits as a substitute, and they add a nice texture!
Ranch Dressing: This dressing ties everything together nicely. If you’re watching calories or want a lighter option, consider a yogurt-based ranch or make your own with Greek yogurt and herbs.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives a lovely flavor and melts beautifully. Feel free to switch it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack if you crave a bit of spice!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is great, but frozen will save you prep time. You could also switch it up with other veggies like cauliflower or peas for a different taste.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is optional but adds creaminess. For a lighter option, try cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce for a fresh twist.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Creamy and Flavorful?
To keep your casserole creamy and tasty, it’s all about balancing your ingredients. Make sure to mix everything well in your bowl, so each bite has the same flavor. Use enough ranch dressing and, if adding cream of chicken soup, that will help a lot.
- Cook your rice right before mixing; warm rice combines better.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning! Adjust salt and pepper to your taste, and feel free to sprinkle some extra garlic or onion powder for that flavor boost.
After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream of chicken soup (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes before you can enjoy this warm and cozy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden brown cheese topping!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, cooked rice, ranch dressing, broccoli florets, garlic powder, onion powder, and cream of chicken soup if you’re using it. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt and pepper for flavor! Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray or a bit of butter. This will help prevent sticking. Now, transfer your mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with the back of your spoon or spatula.
4. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and starts to turn golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, carefully take it out of the oven (don’t burn yourself!), and let it cool for a few minutes. This gives it some time to set. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your casserole warm!
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked?
It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe, as raw chicken needs to be cooked thoroughly to ensure safety. If you only have raw chicken, you can quickly cook it in a skillet or oven before shredding. Just season it well to get extra flavor in your casserole!
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing or prefer a different flavor, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs like dill and parsley or try a creamy Caesar dressing. For a lighter option, you can also use a vinaigrette, but keep in mind the flavor will be different.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it, covered, in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry.
