Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this chicken bacon ranch casserole recipe! A delightful blend of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing comes together for a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup crispy bacon, chopped
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (about 1/6 of the casserole), the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: 800mg
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped bacon, ranch dressing, and garlic powder.
3. Add cooked rice or pasta to the mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Mix in frozen vegetables, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute cooked chicken with rotisserie chicken or turkey for a lighter option. You can also use Greek yogurt in place of ranch dressing for a healthier twist!
Serving and Pairings
This chicken bacon ranch casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread is also a delightful addition.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip the foil cover initially to keep the casserole moist.
– Use pre-cooked ingredients to save time.
– Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
– Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
– Allow it to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavors.
Helpful Tips
– Use leftover chicken for a quick prep.
– Experiment with different cheeses for varied taste.
– Add more veggies for extra nutrition.
– Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top for creaminess.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of bacon?
Turkey bacon or smoked sausage can be great alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta or rice and ensure your ranch dressing is gluten-free.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
Conclusion
This chicken bacon ranch casserole recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and comforting meal. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy every bite of this hearty dish!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup crispy bacon chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corn
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped bacon, ranch dressing, and garlic powder.
- Add cooked rice or pasta to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Mix in frozen vegetables, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!