Description
Creamy crack chicken casserole combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese in a comforting dish. Ranch seasoning and cream cheese elevate this irresistible meal that will satisfy hungry diners at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups chicken, shredded
- 2 cups pasta (elbow or rotini), cooked
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (112 cups)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dairy and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with non-stick spray.
- Create a velvety base by whisking cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch seasoning until achieving a uniform, silky texture.
- Incorporate shredded chicken, cooked pasta, a generous portion of cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon fragments into the creamy mixture, ensuring thorough integration.
- Carefully distribute the combined ingredients into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer that promises uniform cooking.
- Embellish the casserole’s surface with a lavish sprinkle of remaining cheddar cheese and crisp bacon pieces, adding visual appeal and textural contrast.
- Allow the casserole to transform in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden, bubbling surface that signals perfect doneness.
- Optional: Enhance the final presentation by scattering freshly chopped green onions across the top, adding a vibrant touch of color and subtle onion essence.
- Serve immediately while the casserole retains its warm, comforting temperature and enticing aroma.
Notes
- Choose low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt as healthier alternatives to keep the dish lighter while maintaining creamy texture.
- Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to accommodate different dietary needs without compromising flavor.
- Prep chicken ahead of time by using rotisserie or batch-cooking to save precious weeknight cooking minutes and reduce overall preparation stress.
- Replace bacon with turkey bacon or crispy mushroom bits for vegetarian guests, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg