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Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience: the Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. This dish is not just a meal; it's a hearty gathering of flavors that makes it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply when you want to indulge in something truly satisfying. The creamy texture, combined with the savory flavors of chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch dressing, creates a delightful fusion that has made this casserole a beloved favorite among many households.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Discover the joy of cooking with this Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole! A perfect blend of flavors, this dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, zesty ranch dressing, and creamy cheese to create a comforting meal that’s ideal for family events or cozy nights. With easy preparation and the versatility to use leftover ingredients, this casserole is both delicious and practical. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful and satisfying comfort food that everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken

6 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled

1 cup ranch dressing

1 cup sour cream

2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne recommended)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup frozen peas (optional for added color and nutrition)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling on breadcrumbs)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

    Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with the crumbled bacon. Add in the ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are well blended for a creamy base.

      Incorporate Pasta and Peas: Gently fold in the cooked pasta and optional frozen peas into the chicken mixture, stirring until all the components are evenly mixed and coated in the creamy sauce.

        Add the Cheddar Cheese: Gently fold in ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture, making sure it’s distributed throughout so every bite is cheesy.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

            Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated for a crispy topping.

              Top the Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the chicken and pasta mixture in the baking dish, ensuring complete coverage for that satisfying crunch.

                Bake to Perfection: Carefully place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. It’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

                  Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling time helps set the layers. Serve warm and savor each delightful bite of your Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve in individual bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. A side salad pairs beautifully for a complete meal. Enjoy!