Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole: Your New Go-To Comfort Food
A rich, savory casserole combining tender chicken, pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce with a zesty ranch twist. Perfect for families or cozy nights, this crowd-pleasing dish delivers addictive, restaurant-quality comfort in one pan.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 45
- Total Time: 65
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
8 ounces macaroni pasta, cooked
1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1/3 cup halal-certified turkey bacon, chopped and crisped (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Sauté onion and bell peppers in 1 tablespoon butter until softened
In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat
Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk and heavy cream
Simmer until slightly thickened, then stir in cream cheese until melted
Mix in ranch seasoning and garlic powder
Combine cooked pasta, sautéed veggies, cubed chicken, and ¾ of the cheese sauce
Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish
Top with remaining cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and crisped turkey bacon (if using)
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly
Garnish with green onions before serving
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving alternative
Increase veggies by adding frozen peas or carrot juliennes
Store leftovers airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days
Turkey bacon substitutes pork bacon for halal compliance
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/cheesy-crack-chicken-casserole/