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Crack Chicken Casserole


  • Author: Mark Bennett
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

A creamy, addictive casserole loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, and melted cheese that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 oz pasta shells or rotini, cooked
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. 2. Cook pasta according to package directions until just shy of al dente, drain well and set aside.
  3. 3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sour cream, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. 4. Add shredded chicken, cooked pasta, three-quarters of the bacon, and 1 cup of shredded cheese to the cream mixture and fold together until everything is evenly coated.
  5. 5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. 6. Top with remaining 1 cup of cheese and reserved bacon pieces.
  7. 7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. 8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  9. 9. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. Can be frozen unbaked for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking. Excellent served with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 485
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g