Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Whipping up a mouthwatering chicken bacon ranch casserole with potatoes promises comfort and pure satisfaction.

Crispy bacon bits and tender chicken create an irresistible combination that screams home-cooked goodness.

Hearty potatoes add a delightful texture to this crowd-pleasing dish.

Creamy ranch seasoning weaves magic through every single bite, making taste buds dance with excitement.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this simple yet spectacular meal.

Layers of rich flavors will have you coming back for seconds, guaranteed.

You won’t be able to resist this ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole with Potatoes Overview

  • Create Comfort: A hearty, satisfying meal that brings warmth and happiness to your dinner table with its rich, creamy textures and bold flavors.
  • Maximize Convenience: One-pan wonder that simplifies cooking, minimizes cleanup, and delivers a complete meal packed with protein, potatoes, and cheesy goodness.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings where everyone craves a delicious, filling dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Customizable Cooking: Easily adaptable recipe allowing substitutions of ingredients or seasonings to match personal preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients Required for Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Main Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Hearty root vegetables that form the base of this comforting casserole.
  • Chicken: Protein-packed main ingredient that adds substantial flavor to the dish.
  • Bacon: Crispy, savory meat that provides a rich and smoky taste.
Dairy and Cheese:
  • Cream Cheese: Creamy ingredient that helps bind the casserole and adds richness.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that melts beautifully and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Seasonings and Aromatics:
  • Olive Oil, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that add depth and enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  • Ranch Seasoning: Zesty blend that provides a tangy and herbal note to the chicken.
  • Green Onions: Optional garnish that adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and bright color to the finished dish.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 375F (190C). Grab a 9×13 baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter coating to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Potato Base

Toss potato cubes with:
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Slide into the oven and bake for 25 minutes until they start getting golden and crispy.

Step 3: Cook Crispy Bacon

While potatoes are roasting, fry bacon in a skillet until it reaches maximum crispiness. Once done, transfer to a paper towel and crumble into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Season and Sear Chicken

Use the same skillet with bacon drippings. Sprinkle chicken cubes with ranch seasoning.

Cook until each piece turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 5: Create Creamy Cheese Blend

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Cream cheese
  • Shredded cheddar
  • Half of the crumbled bacon

Mix until well incorporated.

Step 6: Layer and Assemble

Once potatoes are done, layer the dish with:
  • Cooked chicken
  • Cheese mixture
  • Remaining bacon crumbles

Step 7: Final Bake

Return the casserole to the oven. Bake for 20 more minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions on top if desired. Serve piping hot and enjoy your hearty meal!

Tips for Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Success

  • Swap ranch seasoning with your favorite herbs for a personalized flavor twist.
  • Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a nutrient-packed alternative.
  • Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup and clean serving.
  • Keep bacon extra crispy by draining on paper towels before crumbling.
  • Choose low-fat cream cheese and cheese to make the dish lighter and healthier.

Flavor Variations for Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Replace potatoes with roasted cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.
  • Mediterranean Herb Variation: Swap ranch seasoning with Italian herbs, add feta cheese, and use sun-dried tomatoes instead of bacon.
  • Vegetarian Protein Option: Substitute chicken with roasted tofu or chickpeas, use vegetarian bacon bits or smoked mushrooms for similar texture.
  • Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, sprinkle chili powder, and top with fresh cilantro for a zesty kick.

Serving Ideas for Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

  • Cozy Family Feast: A hearty one-dish meal perfect for gathering loved ones around the table.
  • Game Night Crowd-Pleaser: Easily prepped ahead and reheated, making it ideal for potlucks or sports watching parties.
  • Low-Carb Twist Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter version that still delivers amazing flavor and comfort.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Fast preparation and minimal cleanup make this recipe a go-to for busy households seeking delicious, satisfying meals.

Storage Tips for Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Separate the chicken, potatoes, and bacon to maintain their individual textures.
  • Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss.
  • Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

FAQs

  • What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal. They hold their shape well and create a creamy, crispy texture when roasted.

  • Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great leaner alternative that will still provide a delicious smoky flavor to the casserole.

  • How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy.

  • Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole earlier and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

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Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole With Potatoes Recipe


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4.6 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole brings comfort and flavor to family dinner tables. Creamy layers of potatoes, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch dressing combine for a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) bacon (cooked and crumbled)

Base:

  • 4 potatoes (cubed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Dairy and Seasoning:

  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 cups (226 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
  • 2 green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to 375F (190C) and coating a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Combine potato cubes with aromatic seasonings and olive oil, then distribute evenly across the baking dish. Roast for 25 minutes until edges turn crisp and golden.
  3. Meanwhile, render bacon in a skillet until achieving a perfect crackly texture. Transfer to a paper towel and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Using the same skillet, sear chicken cubes seasoned with ranch blend until exterior develops a rich, caramelized appearance.
  5. Create a creamy fusion by blending softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and half of the crumbled bacon in a mixing bowl.
  6. After potato roasting completes, layer the dish strategically with cooked chicken, cheese mixture, and remaining bacon fragments.
  7. Return casserole to the oven, allowing it to bake for an additional 20 minutes until surface becomes bubbly and develops a tempting golden-brown crust.
  8. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions for a vibrant finishing touch. Serve immediately while temperature and flavors are at their peak.

Notes

  • Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for even cooking and a creamy texture that holds up beautifully in the casserole.
  • Pat bacon dry before crumbling to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent soggy bits in your dish.
  • Swap chicken for turkey or plant-based alternatives like tofu for different dietary needs while maintaining the same delicious flavor profile.
  • Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for a convenient make-ahead dinner option.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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