Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Creamy, dreamy, oozing deliciousness with cheese pulls a mile long – these are the things that dance through my head in the last few hours of a long work day. The day I cooked up this casserole I knew I needed something quick and easy, a recipe that can be thrown into a pot and left to do its thing while I do mine. I have to admit I use ranch seasoning as a secret flavor bomb, and this recipe is the best way to test it out if you’ve never played around with this ingredient before.
Ingredient Notes
Chicken breast – This recipe is best with boneless breast cut into bite sized pieces. Of course you can use chicken thighs instead if that’s what you have on hand. Olive oil – We’ll be tossing this with the chicken and ranch to help the seasoning stick to the meat. Ranch seasoning – Ranch seasoning offers more flavor concentration than its liquid counterpart. White rice – Make sure your rice is uncooked as we want it to absorb all the flavors of this dish as it cooks. I used short grain for this recipe. Onion – I used a small white onion for this dish, its flavor is mild and slightly sweet and cooks well. Garlic – I used freshly minced garlic. Garlic from the bottle will work just fine, but be sure to remember that 1 1/2 teaspoon equals one fresh clove. Bacon – Cook the bacon before hand and chop finely. Chicken broth – This dish gets its salt from both the ranch and the bacon, so opt for low sodium or no sodium broth. Half and half – The key to our creamy and dreamy end result. If you’re looking to cut calories milk will work as a substitute. Cheddar cheese – Use a cheese that melts well. Mozzarella is another good option but I wanted a bit more color in my dish. Parsley – Lots of parsley, freshly chopped and saved to sprinkle on right at the end.
How To Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Leftovers
Store in an airtight container for 3 – 4 days in the fridge. If freezing ensure that your dish is wrapped in both plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Be sure that your dish has fully cooled before it is placed in either the freezer or fridge.
How To Make This Casserole Ahead
Some special steps need to be taken for those who want to prepare this casserole ahead of time and freeze till later use. Since this dish uses uncooked rice, it must be taken out of the freezer a day before it’s cooked. Place it in the fridge and allow to thaw for a day. The dish must be thawed entirely before it is put in the oven.
Tips For Making The Best Casserole
Craving More Casseroles? Try These:
Chicken Enchilada Casserole Deconstructed Stuffed Pepper Casserole Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Chicken Alfredo Bake Mighty Moussaka Chicken On The Ritz One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Crack Chicken Penne
