Description
Midwestern comfort shines through this hearty Crack Chicken Casserole, blending creamy textures with savory chicken and cheese. Generous portions and simple ingredients make this dish a crowd-pleasing favorite for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (907 g) cooked chicken breasts (shredded or cubed)
- 1.5 cups (360 ml) chicken broth
- 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese (softened)
- 1.5 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup (240 g) sour cream
- 1/2 cup (57 g) cooked bacon pieces (crumbled)
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional topping)
- 2 cups (300 g) cooked pasta or rice (optional for added texture)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tbsps homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture becomes silky and uniform.
- Incorporate chicken broth into the creamy base, ensuring a smooth and well-blended consistency.
- Gently fold cooked chicken and half of the cheddar cheese into the mixture, creating a rich and hearty filling.
- If using pasta or rice, carefully integrate it into the chicken mixture, distributing evenly and seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Carefully pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top to create an even layer.
- Generously scatter the remaining cheddar cheese across the surface, followed by a layer of crumbled bacon and optional mozzarella for added richness.
- Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges become bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the casserole to set and flavors to meld.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley to add a bright, fresh touch before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing.
- Swap chicken with shredded turkey or plant-based protein for dietary variety.
- Use low-fat dairy options to create a lighter version without compromising flavor.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time for quick weeknight meal assembly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 345 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg