Crack Chicken Casserole
Hey there! My favorite Crack Chicken Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and impossible to resist. My family loves this dish, especially on busy weeknights. It’s so comforting and satisfying. What’s the best part? It’s really easy to make! The way the flavors mix makes the dish feel like a warm hug.
Every time I make it, the house smells amazing, and my husband always asks for seconds. Also, if you have any leftover chicken, this is a great way to use it up. I promise that this casserole will quickly become a favorite at your house as well. You might also like my Easy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole if you want something different. It’s another dish that everyone likes! Have fun cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Casserole
- The ranch seasoning and cream cheese make a creamy and savory dish with just the right amount of flavor.
- This meal is easy to make and serve all in one dish.
- Full of protein from shredded chicken and crispy bacon bits
- Comforting and satisfying, guaranteed to please everyone
- You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for more nutrition.
- The next day, leftovers taste even better, which is great for meal prep.
- With a lot of melted cheddar cheese on top, it’s the perfect finishing touch.
About This Casserole
This casserole is a simple but exciting dish that your family will love. It has all the classic comfort food flavors, plus a kick from ranch seasoning.
This Crack Chicken Casserole is a warm, crowd-pleasing meal that works well for busy weeknights or family get-togethers. It has a creamy texture and great flavors, so it will probably become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Two cups of shredded cooked chicken. This is a great use for leftover rotisserie chicken!
- 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. I like using Philadelphia cream cheese because it is smooth.
- One packet of ranch seasoning mix. I think Hidden Valley tastes the best, but any brand will do.
- 1 cup of sour cream. Choose full fat for that extra creaminess!
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for the top. I like to use sharp cheddar because it has a stronger cheese flavor.
- 1/2 cup of cooked bacon bits. I like using real bacon bits because they taste better, but the bagged ones work too!
- 1 cup of cooked and drained pasta, like rotini or penne. Remember to cook it al dente because it will bake a little more.
- 1/4 cup of green onions for a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste. Always add spices to taste!
Instructions
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake.
- Put the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and sour cream in a big bowl. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, cooked bacon bits, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Add salt and pepper to taste to the mixture, making sure everything is well mixed.
- Put the mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you want more cheese, go ahead!
- Put the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the casserole is hot all the way through.
- Take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can add more chopped green onions on top if you want!
Enjoy your Crack Chicken Casserole, which is warm and comforting! It always works, and I know you’ll love it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Of course! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and make your food taste better. Just cut or shred the chicken into pieces that are small enough to fit in your mouth and follow the recipe as directed.
What if I don’t have a mix for ranch seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own by mixing equal amounts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little salt. Italian seasoning can work in a pinch, but it will change the taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can put the casserole together ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking it. Just wrap it up tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Add 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if you need to bake it right away from the fridge.
What is the best way to keep leftovers?
You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. You can reheat it by putting it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or you can microwave single servings.