Introduction

This Crack Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. Made with tender chicken, a flavorful ranch base, and crispy beef bacon, it’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Crack Chicken Casserole: Easy, Cheesy Dinner Recipe! Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked beef bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook and shred chicken breasts or use shredded rotisserie chicken. Cook beef bacon until crispy, then crumble. Set both aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth, then stir in milk, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fold shredded chicken into the creamy ranch mixture until coated. Spread evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled beef bacon over the top. Repeat with remaining cheddar cheese and beef bacon.
Step 4: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time and extra flavor.
Swap beef bacon with regular bacon or turkey bacon for a different taste.
Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Serve over rice or with steamed vegetables to make it a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this casserole?

Yes, just be sure to fully cook and shred the chicken before mixing it into the casserole to ensure safety and the best texture.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese and sour cream?

You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives to make this recipe suitable for lactose intolerance, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Crack Chicken Casserole: Easy, Cheesy Dinner Recipe! Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 83 reviews

This Crack Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dinner recipe made with tender shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crispy beef bacon. It’s a comforting baked casserole that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or family meals.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Bacon

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1/2 cup cooked beef bacon, crumbled

Creamy Sauce

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Toppings

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Prepare Chicken and Beef Bacon: Cook and shred chicken breasts or use shredded rotisserie chicken. Cook beef bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Set both aside.
Make Creamy Ranch Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well blended. Stir in milk, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
Assemble Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fold the shredded chicken into the creamy ranch base until all pieces are coated evenly. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled beef bacon over the chicken mixture. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon for a layered effect.
Bake Casserole: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown, bubbly, and cooked through. Once done, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or chives before serving if desired.

Notes

Shredded rotisserie chicken can be used to save time.
Beef bacon is preferred for a stronger smoky flavor, but regular bacon can be substituted.
For extra creaminess, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
Adjust seasoning according to taste; add more ranch mix or garlic powder if desired.
This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking.
To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Garnishing with green onions adds a fresh bite and color contrast.

Keywords: Crack Chicken Casserole, cheesy chicken casserole, ranch chicken bake, beef bacon casserole, easy dinner recipe, baked chicken casserole