If you’re looking for the perfect easy, cheesy, and comforting dinner, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole with Potatoes is calling your name! 🧀🥓🍗 It’s packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, ranch-seasoned potatoes, and gooey melted cheese—a combination so good it might just become a weekly staple in your home.
This hearty dish is great for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd. Plus, it’s super customizable! Want to add veggies? Go for it! Need a low-carb version? I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into this delicious, crowd-pleasing casserole!
🛒 Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
For the Casserole:
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts, diced
- 4 cups russet or red potatoes, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup ranch dressing (or ranch seasoning mix)
- ½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup broccoli or spinach (for extra veggies)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice)
🔥 How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole with Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the potato cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly in the baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Potatoes First
Roast the potatoes for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. This helps them get slightly crispy before adding the rest of the ingredients.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken
While the potatoes bake, toss the diced chicken with ranch dressing and sour cream in a bowl.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Once the potatoes have roasted, remove them from the oven.
- Layer the ranch-seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken.
- Add the crumbled bacon on top.
Step 6: Bake Again
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/75°C) and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, bacon-packed deliciousness!
⏳ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: ~55 minutes
🔄 Variations & Substitutions
1. Make It Low-Carb
- Swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets or zucchini.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
2. Add More Veggies
- Mix in broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
3. Swap the Protein
- Try ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even sausage.
4. Make It Extra Cheesy
- Add mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese.
🏆 How to Store & Reheat Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
❓ Top 10 FAQs About Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Do I have to pre-bake the potatoes?
Yes, it helps them cook evenly and prevents a mushy texture.
3. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, but let them thaw slightly and pat them dry before baking.
4. Can I use ranch seasoning instead of ranch dressing?
Yes! Mix 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning with ½ cup sour cream for a similar flavor.
5. How do I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or diced jalapeños.
6. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, then top with cheese and bacon before serving.
7. What kind of potatoes work best?
Russet or red potatoes hold up well, but Yukon Golds also work great.
8. Can I add pasta instead of potatoes?
Yes! Use cooked pasta and mix it with the chicken, ranch, and cheese before baking.
9. How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
Cover it with foil while baking, then remove it for the last 10 minutes.
10. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and increase the cooking time slightly.
🍽 Final Thoughts on Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole with Potatoes is everything you love in a one-pan meal—hearty, cheesy, and full of crispy bacon goodness. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
Try it out and let me know—does this become a new family favorite? For more easy casserole recipes, check out this collection of comforting dinners! 🥘🔥