why make this recipe
Creamy BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish full of flavor. It brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy dressings in a delicious way. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s easy to make and only requires one baking dish, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, the combination of BBQ sauce and ranch dressing gives it a unique taste that sets it apart from regular casseroles.
how to make Creamy BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
- 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 15 oz whole kernel corn, drained
- 10 oz Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
- 7 oz diced green chiles
- 1 1/4 cups ranch dressing
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp dried minced onions
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, bacon bits, corn, Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chiles, dried minced onions, and smoked paprika. Stir well to mix everything together.
- Pour the ranch dressing and BBQ sauce over the mixture. Fold everything together until it is well combined and coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden, and the casserole is heated through.
- Let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
how to serve Creamy BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole
Serve this casserole warm right from the oven. It goes well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. Each scoop will overflow with cheesy goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser.
how to store Creamy BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
tips to make Creamy BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole
- For extra flavor, try adding some chopped onions or bell peppers into the mix.
- If you want more heat, include some diced jalapeños or use spicy BBQ sauce.
- Feel free to substitute the pasta with other shapes like penne or rotini if you don’t have bowtie.
variation
You can make this recipe with different proteins like turkey or even ground beef. For a vegetarian version, swap out chicken for black beans or more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, it can be frozen. Just make sure it cools completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
3. Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites instead of cheddar.
