Crack Chicken Casserole Recipe
Introduction
Crack Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and tender hash browns. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole brings simple ingredients together in a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 16 oz shredded hash brown potatoes (frozen)
- 16 oz sour cream
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 oz ranch seasoning
- 2 cups chicken (cooked and shredded)
- 1 cup bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, ranch seasoning, cooked shredded chicken, 3/4 cup of cooked bacon, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything until well combined.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cooked bacon and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add sliced green onions or chopped chives before baking.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken.
- Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.
- Make it spicy by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño to the mix.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through or place the casserole in a 350-degree F oven for about 20 minutes covered with foil.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the day before. Cover it tightly and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to bake, then follow the baking instructions as usual.
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Casserole?
This casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Print
Crack Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Crack Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and savory baked dish featuring shredded hash brown potatoes, tender chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese. This hearty casserole is perfect for a comforting dinner and combines classic flavors into one easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 16 oz shredded hash brown potatoes (frozen)
- 16 oz sour cream
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 oz ranch seasoning
Protein
- 2 cups chicken (cooked and shredded)
- 1 cup bacon (cooked and crumbled)
Dairy
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside for later use.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded hash brown potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, ranch seasoning, cooked shredded chicken, 3/4 cup of the cooked bacon, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, top the casserole with the remaining 1/4 cup of cooked bacon and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to add extra flavor and a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until it is heated through and bubbly on the edges. This will ensure all flavors meld perfectly and the cheese is nicely melted and golden.
Notes
- For a crispier bacon topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Use fresh cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience and best flavor.
- Feel free to add chopped green onions or jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; just bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crack chicken casserole, cheesy chicken casserole, hash brown casserole, baked chicken dish, ranch chicken casserole
