Description
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish combining tender cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh broccoli or spinach, all baked to perfection with ranch dressing and melted cheeses. It makes a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Scale
Casserole Ingredients
- 4 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken breast
- 8 slices cooked and chopped bacon
- 5 cups broccoli florets OR 1 pound thawed frozen spinach (well-drained)
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional
- 1–3 teaspoons ranch seasoning mix (for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the cooked chicken is diced or shredded, bacon is cooked and chopped, and broccoli florets are washed and ready. If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water thoroughly.
- Mix Casserole Components: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped bacon, broccoli or spinach, minced garlic, ranch dressing, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and if desired, the ranch seasoning mix. Stir gently but thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a smooth layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly and enhances the flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute broccoli with fresh or well-drained spinach based on preference.
- Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning mix according to your taste preference for added zing.
- Make sure to drain spinach very well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- This casserole stores well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- To reheat, bake covered with foil at 350°F until warmed through.
Keywords: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, creamy chicken casserole, bacon cheese casserole, broccoli chicken bake, ranch dressing casserole, easy chicken dinner