Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole: A Deliciously Creamy Comfort Food
Are you craving a hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to make and guaranteed to please the whole family? Look no further than this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole! Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy Alfredo sauce, this comforting casserole is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the recipe step by step, including variations for keto and low-carb diets, and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb Bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 lb Chicken thighs or breasts, cooked and diced
- 1 14.5-ounce jar Alfredo sauce
- 8 oz Penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 packet Ranch dressing mix, dry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Cook them in the same skillet used for the bacon until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let them cool slightly before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, chopped bacon, Alfredo sauce, and dry ranch dressing mix. Mix until everything is well coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetables: Feel free to add some sautéed vegetables to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach are all great options.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the casserole for an extra kick.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese to change up the flavor profile of the casserole. Gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack would all work well in this recipe.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
To make a keto or low-carb version of this dish, simply make the following substitutions:
- Pasta Replacement: Instead of penne pasta, use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content.
- Alfredo Sauce: Look for a low-carb or keto-friendly Alfredo sauce option at your local grocery store, or make your own using heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cheese Adjustments: Use full-fat cheese varieties and adjust the quantity according to your dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use precooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, absolutely! You can use precooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken, to save time.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply portion it into individual servings, place them in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Certainly! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and cheesy goodness, Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this easy-to-make dish is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a try and enjoy the irresistible combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch in every bite!