Description
Cheesy Ranch Chicken Casserole is an easy and delicious comfort food that combines tender chicken and a creamy, cheesy ranch sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s made with simple ingredients like chicken breasts, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 packet (1 ounce / 2 tablespoons) dry ranch seasoning
- 1 medium white onion, finely diced
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 8 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with this mixture.
- On a plate, place the flour and dredge each chicken breast, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Cook the chicken breasts for 4 minutes on each side until golden brown, then transfer to the baking dish.
- Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and add the diced onion. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the cream of chicken soup and heavy cream, whisking until the sauce is smooth.
- Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, followed by ½ cup of bacon (reserving the rest for garnish).
- Pour the ranch cheese sauce over the chicken in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 minutes.
- After baking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top, then return to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Spoon extra sauce over each serving.
Notes
Feel free to substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
For extra flavor, consider adding some diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the onion while sautéing.
This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 145mg