Crack Chicken Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Crack Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort food that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and savory ranch flavors with hash brown potatoes. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 16 oz shredded hash brown potatoes (frozen)
• 16 oz sour cream
• 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 oz ranch seasoning
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded hash brown potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, ranch seasoning, cooked chicken, 3/4 cup of the cooked bacon, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Step 3: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cooked bacon and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped green onions or diced jalapeños to the mix before baking.
• Substitute turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a different twist.
• If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated 350 degrees F oven for about 15-20 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

While fresh shredded potatoes can be used, frozen hash browns are recommended for convenience and texture. If using fresh, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Crack Chicken Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 140 reviews

A creamy and comforting Crack Chicken Casserole featuring shredded hash browns, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection in a rich ranch-flavored sauce.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 16 oz shredded hash brown potatoes (frozen)
• 16 oz sour cream
• 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 oz ranch seasoning
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen shredded hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, ranch seasoning, cooked shredded chicken, 3/4 cup of the cooked and crumbled bacon, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
3. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cooked bacon and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a crispy, cheesy finish.
4. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly heated and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

Notes

• You can use rotisserie chicken as a convenient shortcut for the cooked shredded chicken.
• Make sure to thaw the hash browns slightly or separate any clumps before mixing for even cooking.
• For extra flavor, consider adding chopped green onions or garlic powder into the mixture.
• This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
• Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese if you want a lighter version.

Keywords: crack chicken casserole, hash brown casserole, chicken casserole, creamy chicken bake, cheesy chicken casserole, comfort food