Description
BBQ ranch chicken casserole brings comfort and excitement to weeknight dinners with its rich, creamy layers. Southern-style comfort creates a hearty meal family members will eagerly devour.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Carbohydrates:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 3 cups cooked pasta
Sauces and Cheese:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Whisk together tangy BBQ sauce, creamy ranch dressing, aromatic garlic powder, and savory onion powder in a spacious mixing vessel.
- Fold in pre-cooked chicken and pasta, ensuring every morsel is thoroughly enrobed with the zesty sauce mixture.
- Transfer the saucy combination into a lightly greased casserole dish, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Generously scatter shredded cheddar cheese across the surface, creating a blanket of melty goodness.
- Sprinkle crispy bacon crumbles over the cheese for an additional layer of flavor and crunch.
- Slide the uncovered dish into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for the cheese to transform into a golden, bubbling topping.
- Remove from oven and allow to rest briefly before garnishing with freshly chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately while warm and indulgent, letting the harmonious blend of flavors tantalize the taste buds.
Notes
- Use pre-shredded rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and easier preparation.
- Opt for whole wheat pasta to boost nutritional value and add more fiber to the dish.
- Swap regular bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner protein option.
- Consider adding diced bell peppers or corn for extra texture and nutritional variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 433 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 870 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg