Description
Crack Chicken Casserole
Indulge in this delicious comfort dish featuring creamy chicken, crispy bacon, and ranch-seasoned hashbrown potatoes. It’s a favorite for family dinners, known for its cheesy goodness and satisfying flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time!
16 oz shredded hash brown potatoes
16 oz sour cream
10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
4 tbsp melted butter
1 oz ranch seasoning
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Place mixture in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
4. Top with extra bacon and cheese.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 435 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a light coating of butter.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a very large mixing bowl, stir together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and ranch seasoning mix until smooth and fully combined.
3. Add Main Components: To the creamy mixture, add the shredded hash brown potatoes, shredded cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Reserve 1/2 cup of cheese for the topping. Mix thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated.
4. Assemble & Top: Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and any extra crumbled bacon you desire over the top.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout, and the top is golden brown.
6. Rest & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly for easier serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich casserole pairs perfectly with lighter, fresh sides to balance the meal. Consider serving it with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or garlic breadsticks. For a casual potluck, it’s hearty enough to stand alone.
How-to Summary
Mix sour cream, soup, butter, and ranch seasoning. Fold in hash browns, chicken, bacon, and most of the cheese. Spread in a dish, top with remaining cheese and bacon. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Crack Chicken Casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use fresh chicken? Absolutely. Cook and shred about 2 chicken breasts or 3 thighs. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.
Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup? Cream of mushroom or celery soup work well. For a homemade version, mix 1 cup of a thick white sauce with 1/2 teaspoon of chicken bouillon.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered, in a 325°F oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze this casserole? It’s best frozen before baking. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using frozen hash browns without thawing and squeezing out excess water, as this can make the casserole soggy. Do not overmix once the potatoes are added, as it can break them down. Ensure your shredded chicken is not overly wet. Finally, do not skip the resting time after baking, as it allows the casserole to set for clean slices.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors with minimal effort. Its versatility for make-ahead meals and forgiving nature make it a reliable recipe for busy weeknights or comforting gatherings. Follow this guide to create a consistently delicious and crowd-pleasing dish that will become a regular in your dinner rotation.