Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole recipe is so much better than a frozen dinner! Made with two types of meat, tender chicken and crispy bacon, it’s deliciously rich, creamy, and just the right amount of savory. It’s super easy to make too, it comes together with 5 simple ingredients in under 10 minutes.

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We’ve already made this homemade casserole a few times this December, and I have a feeling that it’ll stay on repeat all month long. It’s the perfect warming meal for a cold winter night, especially if you have a family (like ours) who loves cozying up around the dinner table with a plate to share.

Enjoy it plain, or top it with extra cheese, green onions, and/or sour cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Some dinners just make life easier, and this casserole does exactly that. Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole brings familiar flavors together in one pan with very little effort.

Creamy texture: The rice cooks into a soft, rich base.

Savory layers: Bacon and ranch add bold flavor in every bite.

One dish dinner: Everything bakes together without extra pans.

Family friendly: Cheesy, mild, and comforting for all ages.

Leftover friendly: Tastes just as good the next day.

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Ingredients

For Chicken Bacon Ranch Csserole:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite size pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1½ cups white rice uncooked
• 2½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup half and half
• 3 tablespoons ranch dressing mix
• 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
• 8 slices bacon cooked and chopped
• 2 tablespoons parsley chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 375°F. A steady oven temperature helps the rice cook evenly while keeping the chicken tender. Lightly grease a large baking dish so nothing sticks during baking.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the outside turns white and lightly golden. The chicken does not need to cook fully at this stage. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Stir and cook until soft and lightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. This step builds flavor for the whole casserole.

4. Build the Creamy Base

Stir the uncooked rice into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and half and half. Sprinkle in the ranch dressing mix and stir well so everything blends smoothly.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread the partially cooked chicken evenly over the top. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese and most of the bacon across the surface. Gently stir to distribute everything evenly.

6. Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 40 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb liquid and cook fully while flavors blend together.

7. Add the Toppings

Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon on top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.

8. Rest Before Serving

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce settle and makes scooping easier. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Add mozzarella or Monterey Jack with the cheddar.
• Stir in peas or broccoli before baking.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Use milk instead of half and half.
• Assemble ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole works well as a full meal on its own, but simple sides make it even better. A crisp green salad adds freshness and balance to the creamy dish. Roasted vegetables also pair nicely without overpowering the flavors.

When I serve this for family dinners, I usually add warm dinner rolls or garlic bread. Everyone loves scooping the creamy rice and chicken with a soft piece of bread on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but increase the liquid slightly and extend baking time.

Does the rice cook fully?

Yes, as long as the dish stays covered during the first bake.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, stir it in during assembly and reduce bake time slightly.

How long do leftovers last?

Store in the fridge for up to four days.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, freeze after baking and cooling fully. Reheat in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole brings together creamy comfort and bold flavor in the easiest way possible. Tender chicken, smoky bacon, and ranch seasoned rice create a dish that feels warm and filling every time.