Ranch Chicken Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting
Introduction
This Ranch Chicken Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner: tender shredded chicken, colorful veggies, and ranch seasoning baked together under a blanket of melted cheese. It’s wholesome, hearty, and bursting with flavor—perfect for feeding the family or meal prepping ahead.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One‑dish wonder: Easy prep, minimal cleanup.
Loaded with veggies: Broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell pepper add nutrition and color.
Creamy ranch flavor: A crowd‑pleasing twist on classic chicken casserole.
Customizable: Add bacon, swap cheeses, or make it low‑carb.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cauliflower florets
1 cup sliced carrots
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 packet ranch seasoning (~1 oz)
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Salt & pepper to taste
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Veggies
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell pepper for 5–6 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 2: Mix Base
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, ranch seasoning, sour cream, and half the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble
Spread mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and crushed crackers/breadcrumbs if using.
Step 4: Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve
Cool slightly, then serve warm with fresh herbs or a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Tips & Tricks
Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
Extra creamy: Stir in cream of chicken soup.
Make ahead: Assemble casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days.
Variations
Buffalo Ranch: Add hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Tex‑Mex: Mix in corn, black beans, and taco seasoning.
Low‑Carb: Skip carrots and breadcrumbs, add zucchini.
Kid‑Friendly: Extra cheese, less cauliflower.
Serving Ideas
Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Serve alongside a crisp green salad.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Drizzle with extra ranch for indulgence.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I use frozen veggies?
Yes, thaw and drain before adding.
Q: Can I make it dairy‑free?
Swap cheeses and sour cream for plant‑based alternatives.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Final Thoughts
This Ranch Chicken Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with veggies—a comforting dish that’s as easy as it is delicious.