Crack Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Crack Chicken Casserole Recipe is a creamy, cheesy, flavour-packed baked dish made with tender chicken, ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese—an easy, crowd-pleasing comfort meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 8 oz 225 g cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 packet 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 6 –8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup chicken broth optional, for thinning
- ½ tsp black pepper or to taste
- Salt to taste (use lightly—ranch and bacon are salty)
- ½ cup chopped green onions or chives for garnish
- Optional topping: 1 cup crushed crackers breadcrumbs, or potato chips + 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, ranch seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until creamy.
- Add chicken and flavourings: Fold in the shredded chicken, cooked bacon, diced onion, garlic, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If the mixture feels too thick, stir in chicken broth a little at a time.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top.
- Add crunchy topping (optional): Mix crushed crackers or chips with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or chives.
Notes
- Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding 5–10 minutes to cooking time.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked (without crunchy topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Variations: Add broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra veggies
- Make it spicy with diced jalapenos or hot sauce
- Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheese flavour
- Low-carb option: Skip the cracker topping and serve with a side salad or cauliflower rice.