Name: Chicken Ranch Casserole: A Comforting, Flavorful Family Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded – Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut or cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs. This is the main protein and the base of the casserole.; 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup – Adds a creamy base and richness to the casserole. You can also use cream of mushroom soup or a low-fat version for a lighter alternative.; 1/2 cup ranch dressing – The star flavor in this dish! Ranch dressing brings a tangy, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.; 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds an extra layer of creaminess and tanginess, balancing out the richness of the ranch dressing and soup.; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that melty, gooey, cheesy goodness. You can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses if you prefer.; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) – A quick way to add color and nutrition to the dish. You can also use fresh veggies like broccoli or bell peppers.; 1 cup cooked pasta (optional) – If you want to make the casserole even more hearty, add a cup of cooked pasta, such as elbow macaroni or rotini.; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a savory flavor that complements the ranch dressing.; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth and savory flavor to the sauce.; Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.; 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs – For a crunchy topping that adds texture to the casserole. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary.; 2 tablespoons butter – To melt over the breadcrumbs or crackers for a golden, crispy topping.

Description

Chicken Ranch Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and melted cheese for a dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, offering a satisfying balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of ranch seasoning that everyone will love. The casserole comes together quickly, making it an ideal option for anyone looking for a fuss-free yet comforting meal. Whether served with a side of veggies or garlic bread, Chicken Ranch Casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded – Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut or cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs. This is the main protein and the base of the casserole.
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup – Adds a creamy base and richness to the casserole. You can also use cream of mushroom soup or a low-fat version for a lighter alternative.
1/2 cup ranch dressing – The star flavor in this dish! Ranch dressing brings a tangy, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
1/2 cup sour cream – Adds an extra layer of creaminess and tanginess, balancing out the richness of the ranch dressing and soup.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that melty, gooey, cheesy goodness. You can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses if you prefer.
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) – A quick way to add color and nutrition to the dish. You can also use fresh veggies like broccoli or bell peppers.
1 cup cooked pasta (optional) – If you want to make the casserole even more hearty, add a cup of cooked pasta, such as elbow macaroni or rotini.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a savory flavor that complements the ranch dressing.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth and savory flavor to the sauce.
Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs – For a crunchy topping that adds texture to the casserole. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary.
2 tablespoons butter – To melt over the breadcrumbs or crackers for a golden, crispy topping.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you haven’t done so already, start by cooking your chicken. You can use cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs by baking, grilling, or pan-searing them. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces once it’s cooked and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and doesn’t stick to the dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:

Cooked chicken
Cream of chicken soup
Ranch dressing
Sour cream
Shredded cheddar cheese
Frozen mixed vegetables (or any other vegetables you’d like to add)
Cooked pasta (if using)
Garlic powder and onion powder
Salt and pepper

Stir the mixture together until everything is well combined. Make sure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. The casserole should fill the dish about halfway.

Step 5: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, melt the butter and toss it with the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole for a crunchy, golden topping.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. You can check the casserole by inserting a fork or knife into the center to ensure it’s heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 400 kcal
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g