Amazing 25-Minute Crack Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Amazing 25-Minute Crack Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish loaded with tender cooked chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s a quick and comforting casserole perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Stir the cooked chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring the chicken is fully coated and the mixture is consistent.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken and cream cheese mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish to create an even layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by the crumbled cooked bacon to add flavor and texture.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, the cheese is fully melted, and the top is lightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and, if desired, garnish with chopped green onions before serving for a fresh and colorful touch.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure smooth mixing.
- This casserole can be reheated in the microwave or oven for leftovers.
Keywords: crack chicken casserole, creamy chicken casserole, ranch chicken, cheesy chicken bake, quick chicken dinner
