Baked Crack Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 40mins | 6 Servings
When it comes to the perfect weeknight dinner, few recipes can compete with Baked Crack Chicken Casserole. This creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish has taken the internet by storm—and for good reason. Combining juicy chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch, and melted cheese, it’s comfort food in its most irresistible form.
What Is Baked Crack Chicken Casserole?
“Crack chicken” is a popular term that originated from the addictive flavor combination of ranch seasoning, cheese, and bacon. When baked together with chicken and cream cheese, it creates a dish that’s incredibly rich and comforting.
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (shredded or cubed)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup green onions, chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: Add 1 cup of cooked pasta, rice, or cauliflower rice to make it a more filling meal.
Directions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the Chicken
You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or cook fresh chicken breasts until tender. Shred or cube them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Chicken and Cheese
Stir in the shredded chicken, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix well to ensure every piece of chicken is coated in that creamy mixture.
5. Bake It
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Baked Crack Chicken Casserole
Want to take your dish to the next level? Try these pro tips:
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to make it healthier.
Make it low-carb by using cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Try different cheeses Monterey Jack or mozzarella work great too.
Prep ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day before and bake when ready.
Serving Ideas
The beauty of this baked crack chicken casserole is its versatility. You can serve it with:
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
A crisp garden salad
Mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty side
It’s a dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything!
Nutrition Facts
*Per serving
- Calories420 kcal
- Protein30 g
- Carbohydrates4 g
- Fat31 g
- Saturated Fat14 g
- Cholesterol120 mg
- Sodium720 mg
- Fiber0.5 g
- Sugar1 g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness.
Q2. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine everything except the cheese topping in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Then top with cheese and bacon just before serving.
Q3. Can I add vegetables?
Definitely. Broccoli, spinach, or zucchini blend perfectly with the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a quick, comforting, and flavor-packed dinner, Baked Crack Chicken Casserole is the recipe you need. It’s rich, creamy, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.
This dish proves that simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary and addictively delicious.
