Crack Chicken Casserole

Crack Chicken Casserole is a rich and comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken, cheese, and bacon in a creamy, indulgent sauce, baked to perfection with a crispy topping. The base of the casserole is tender chunks of chicken breast, cooked until just done and then shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces. This chicken is then mixed with a creamy sauce, typically made from a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, creating a thick and velvety texture. To this, sharp cheddar cheese is added for depth of flavor and a gooey, melty consistency.

The “crack” component of the dish comes from the irresistible addition of crispy, chopped bacon and ranch seasoning. The bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, while the ranch seasoning imparts a tangy, herby flavor profile that’s both bold and comforting. Some variations also include green onions or chives, adding a mild, oniony freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish.

For added texture and substance, cooked pasta, often rotini or penne, is stirred into the mix, making the casserole hearty and filling. Once combined, the mixture is transferred to a baking dish. The top is often sprinkled with more shredded cheese and sometimes topped with a crunchy layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs, which brown beautifully in the oven, adding a delightful crispness to each bite.

The casserole is baked until bubbling and golden brown, with the cheese melted and the top layer crisped to perfection. The result is a mouth-watering dish that’s creamy and rich, with layers of flavor and texture. Crack Chicken Casserole is often served as a main dish, perfect for a comforting family dinner, potlucks, or any gathering where a warm, satisfying meal is desired. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, yet always a crowd-pleaser, combining simple ingredients to create a meal that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken

1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon

16 ounces frozen shredded hash browns

16 ounces sour cream

1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup

4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, 1.5 cups of shredded cheese, and ranch seasoning until well combined.

Fold in the cooked shredded chicken and half of the crumbled bacon.

Evenly spread the mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Top with the remaining shredded cheese and bacon.

Bake for 40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is thoroughly heated.

Indulge in the creamy, savory delight of Crack Chicken Casserole, a dish guaranteed to become a fast favorite. Its comforting and rich flavors make it an excellent choice for any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering.