Savory Creamy Crack Chicken Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream cheese, and smoky bacon into one mouth-watering casserole. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress your loved ones with its comfort and flavor.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
Why Make This Savory Creamy Crack Chicken Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon
This casserole combines the comforting flavors of a chicken dinner with the creamy goodness of cheese and the satisfying crunch of bacon. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also the perfect way to use leftover chicken or rice. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal that combines protein, veggies, and carbohydrates, making it a balanced choice for a family meal. The mix of ranch dressing and cream cheese creates a savory and creamy base that makes every bite indulgent yet satisfying.
How to Make Savory Creamy Crack Chicken Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup frozen or fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
### Step 2: Mixing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a hand mixer or spatula to blend until smooth and creamy.
### Step 3: Cooking
Stir in the cooked and shredded chicken, cooked white rice, broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and additional crumbled bacon, if desired. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
### Step 4: Finishing
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.
How to Serve Savory Creamy Crack Chicken Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with chopped green onions for that extra pop of flavor and color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. This dish is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
How to Store Savory Creamy Crack Chicken Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions of the casserole for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly.
Expert Tips for Perfect Savory Creamy Crack Chicken Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
- Feel free to substitute chicken with shredded turkey or even canned chicken for a quicker option.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing; leave it out at room temperature for 30 minutes before starting.
Delicious Variations
- Buffalo Chicken Casserole: Swap the ranch dressing for buffalo sauce and sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top for a spicy twist.
- BBQ Chicken Casserole: Use BBQ sauce in place of ranch dressing, and top with sliced pickles for a tangy flavor.
- Mexican Style: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex version, and top with nacho cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds additional flavor to the casserole.
2. Is there a dairy-free option?
You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a dairy-free ranch dressing to make the dish dairy-free.
3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. A food thermometer should read at least 165°F (74°C) in the center.
4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking straight from the refrigerator.
5. How do I prevent the cheese from burning on top?
Using aluminum foil for the first part of the baking process helps keep the cheese from burning. Remove the foil only in the last 10-15 minutes when you want it to brown.
Conclusion
The Savory Creamy Crack Chicken Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon is truly a comforting and delicious dish that embodies home-cooked goodness. Its creamy texture and robust flavors leave everyone wanting more. Try this recipe for your next meal, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. With its endless variations and serving possibilities, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household! So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every satisfying bite of this delightful casserole. Happy cooking!
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Savory Creamy Crack Chicken Casserole with Cheddar and Bacon
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delightful casserole combining tender chicken, rich cream cheese, and smoky bacon, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup frozen or fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Stir in chicken, rice, broccoli, crumbled bacon, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well and transfer to the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and more bacon if desired. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let cool for a few minutes before serving and garnish with green onions.
Notes
This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking. It also freezes well for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
