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