Description
Comfort meets zest in this bbq ranch chicken casserole, a hearty dish blending smoky barbecue flavors with creamy ranch essence. Crispy edges, tender chicken, and melted cheese create a irresistible meal that will satisfy hungry diners craving a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
Starches:
- 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Flavor and Topping Ingredients:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup black beans
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional:
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
- Cook pasta until al dente, following package instructions, then thoroughly drain and set aside.
- Combine BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl, whisking until fully integrated.
- Fold in the cooked pasta, tender shredded chicken, sweet corn kernels, and half of the cheese blend, ensuring all components are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixed ingredients into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer across the surface.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, creating a complete coverage that will melt and brown during baking.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, watching for golden, bubbling cheese and heated through center.
- After removing from oven, let the casserole rest for 3-5 minutes to set and stabilize.
- Optional: Garnish with crispy bacon bits and freshly chopped green onions for added texture and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Opt for rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time and add extra flavor complexity to the casserole.
- Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives for dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
- Choose low-sodium BBQ sauce and ranch dressing to control salt intake and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Customize the recipe by adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and a spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 710 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg