Description
This Crack Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for a comforting family meal. Featuring shredded chicken, a rich blend of cream cheese and sour cream, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, this casserole is baked to bubbly perfection and topped with crunchy crackers or French fried onions for extra texture. Easily customizable with pasta or cauliflower rice, it’s a delicious all-in-one meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked pasta or cauliflower rice
- Crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, crumble it, and set aside a portion for topping the casserole later.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Add Main Ingredients: Fold in the shredded chicken, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, most of the crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. If using, stir in cooked pasta or cauliflower rice for added bulk.
- Assemble Casserole: Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it out smoothly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese, the reserved crumbled bacon, and optional crushed crackers or French fried onions over the top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly. For an extra crispy topping, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Garnish with additional chives if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- For a low-carb variation, substitute cooked cauliflower rice in place of pasta.
- Make sure cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds a nice crispy topping to the casserole.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding extra green onions or chives on top brightens the flavors and presentation.