Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole
- Craving Comfort? Try This Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole !
- Ingredients & Equipment: LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE Edition!
- LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE : The Ultimate Hug in a Dish
- Recipe Notes for the BEST LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Craving Comfort? Try This Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole !
Ever have one of those days where you just need a big hug in food form? Honestly, me too! That's why I'm practically bursting to share this LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE recipe.
It's total comfort food casserole recipes and guaranteed to make your taste buds sing. Think creamy, cheesy, bacony goodness all in one dish, like a fully loaded baked potato, but even better.
What's the Deal with this Casserole?
This amazing casserole is a modern twist on a classic. It's like a chicken and potato bake took a vacation to a dude ranch! Originating from the heartland of family dinners, this recipe will become a staple on your weeknight dinner recipes chicken .
It's surprisingly easy to make, even if you're not a whiz in the kitchen. We're talking maybe 20 minutes of prep and 35- 40 minutes in the oven.
This recipe serves 6-8 hungry people.
Why You'll Love It
One of the best things about this casserole is the sheer joy of it, and it's pretty good for you! Potatoes give you energy and potassium.
It is a perfect family friendly casserole dish for a casual weeknight meal. This cheesy chicken casserole is so simple to make.
It is also incredibly satisfying that will surely become a new family favourite! You know, it's the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile.
Ready to see what's inside? Let's get started with the ingredients! You'll need chicken, potatoes, ranch mix, and, of course, lots of cheese!
Ingredients & Equipment: LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE Edition!
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks! This Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is all about simple ingredients and even simpler prep.
Don't worry about fancy gadgets. We're keeping it real! Comfort Food Casserole Recipes, coming right up!
Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific
This Chicken Potato Casserole Recipe needs a few key players. You know, the rockstars of the dish!
- Chicken: 2 lbs (900g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. I'd say, buy the freshest you can find. Pink and plump, not pale and sad, you know? Already cooked and shredded, saves a load of time! Weeknight Dinner Recipes Chicken are the best.
- Potatoes: A whopping 3 lbs (1.36 kg) of Russet potatoes. These are the best for that fluffy inside.
- Ranch: 1 (1 oz/28g) package of Ranch dressing mix. Honestly, the packet stuff works just fine!
- Milk: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Doesn't matter what sort, so long as it's milk.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.75 oz/305g) can.
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml) .
- Sour Cream: 1 cup (225g) .
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (115g) shredded. Get the good stuff!
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon .
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon .
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon .
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon .
- Green Onions: 1/4 cup (15g) chopped, for garnish. Optional but pretty.
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Town, Population: You!
Okay, so that Ranch packet does a lot of the heavy lifting. But don't be afraid to experiment! Chicken and Potato Bake can always use a lil' extra.
- Think a pinch of smoked paprika for smokiness. Mmm, smoky Cheesy Chicken Casserole .
- Or a dash of cayenne for a kick. Whoa! Spicy!
- Dried dill would add a fresh herby vibe.
- Can't find Ranch mix? Honestly, mix some dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of buttermilk powder.
- Ranch Chicken Casserole Easy? Yes, Please!.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
No need for a million gadgets! This Family Friendly Casserole recipe is fuss free.
- A 9x13 inch baking dish . Pyrex is your best mate.
- A big bowl. For mixing the loaded chicken .
- A pot. For boiling those potatoes.
- A colander. To drain those spuds.
- A potato masher (optional). I like mine a bit chunky. Potatoe And Chicken Meals can have a personal touch.
- Cutting board and knife. Standard stuff.
- Honestly, that's it!
So there you have it! The lowdown on what you need to make this LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE a reality. Now get cooking!
LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE : The Ultimate Hug in a Dish
Honestly, who doesn't love a good casserole? This LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE is like a warm hug on a plate.
It's the kind of comfort food casserole recipes that makes you feel all cozy inside. Think chicken potato casserole recipe but seriously loaded .
Perfect for weeknight dinner recipes chicken , or even a casual Sunday family friendly casserole meal. Plus, it's super easy.
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized
Essential Mise en Place is key. Honestly, it’ll save your sanity. Dice those potatoes. Get that chicken shredded. If using bacon, get it crispy and crumbled.
I usually do the bacon first. It saves time. Have everything ready to go before you even think about turning on the oven.
Time saving tip: Buy a rotisserie chicken.Seriously, do it. No shame in the game. It cuts down on prep time big time.
Safety First: Always wash your hands before starting. You know, for obvious reasons. Keep raw chicken and cooked foods separate.
step-by-step: Casserole Magic
- Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) .
- Boil those diced potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Usually, about 15- 20 minutes .
- Drain the potatoes well. Then, toss 'em with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the shredded chicken, Ranch dressing mix, milk, and cream of chicken soup in a bowl.
- Layer the potato mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Then, add the chicken mixture on top. Sour Cream! Cheese! Bacon!
Bake for 35- 40 minutes . You'll know it's done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Casserole
Don't overcook the chicken. It gets dry and sad. Poaching it before shredding works wonders.
Avoid soggy casserole. Drain those potatoes thoroughly . No one likes a watery mess, right?
make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole ahead of time. Then, cover it and refrigerate it. Bake it the next day. Just add 10- 15 minutes to the baking time.
This is my little secret for Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas for busy nights and a perfect Cheesy Chicken Casserole or even just as potatoe and chicken meals Now you have the perfect Ranch Chicken Casserole Easy recipe.
This LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE isn't just a recipe; it's an experience. It's about bringing people together with delicious, fuss free food.
Whether you're looking for chicken and potato bake , the key is to have fun.
Recipe Notes for the BEST LOADED POTATO RANCH CHICKEN CASSEROLE
Honestly, this Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is my kind of dish! It's proper comfort food casserole recipes that the whole family will love.
It's one of those easy chicken dinner ideas that I can whip up any night of the week. Think of it as a deconstructed baked potato, but in casserole form! Potato And Chicken Meals are always a win.
Plating and Presentation Perfection
Okay, so, presentation wise? I reckon a sprinkle of extra crispy bacon and those green onions can really lift the look.
You know, make it pop a bit. As for sides, something green and fresh is ideal. A simple green salad really cuts through the richness.
You could also serve it with some steamed green beans for a healthier touch. Maybe a nice glass of crisp white wine for the grown ups?
Storage Secrets
Right, so you've got leftovers? Lucky you! This Cheesy Chicken Casserole stores like a dream. Pop it in the fridge in an airtight container.
It’ll keep for about 3 days, easy. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely first. Wrap it well in freezer wrap or put it in a freezer bag.
It can last up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, bake it at 350° F ( 175° C) until it's heated through.
Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) for safety.
Adaptations and Swaps
Fancy a change? For a dairy-free version, swap the sour cream for a plant based alternative. Use dairy-free cheese, too. You could even use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones.
This Chicken and Potato Bake is super adaptable. For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper! Use your own Cream of Chicken Soup if you like!
Nutrition Nuggets
Each serving of this Ranch Chicken Casserole Easy dish clocks in around 450-550 calories. It's packed with protein around 35-45 grams per serving.
Plus, potatoes give you a good dose of carbs for energy. Just remember that these are estimates. The final count depends on your exact ingredients.
So there you have it! My notes for making the perfect Chicken Potato Casserole Recipe . It is an amazing Family Friendly Casserole .
Don't be scared to get creative. Most importantly, have fun with it! I'm sure you're going to create the best Loaded Chicken Casserole dish ever.
This is a really useful Weeknight Dinner Recipes Chicken option. Happy cooking, my friend!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with cling film, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook it. Think of it as your very own "ready steady cook" meal prepped and ready to go!
What's the best way to store leftover Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole? And how long will it last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or reheat the whole casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Just like a good cuppa, this casserole is often even better the next day!
Can I freeze this Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole?
Yes, you can! For best results, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in cling film, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
It's like having a pre-made hug on a plate ready whenever you need it.
I'm trying to watch my calories are there any lighter substitutions I can make in this Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole?
Definitely! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, which will cut down on fat and calories. Also, consider using reduced fat cheddar cheese and turkey bacon. You could also use a leaner cut of chicken or even add more veggies to bulk it out, like some broccoli or cauliflower, to make it a bit lighter without sacrificing flavour.
My family isn't keen on ranch dressing. What other sauces could I use in this Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole?
No worries, you've got options! A BBQ sauce would give it a smoky, tangy flavor, or a creamy mushroom sauce would add a more savory depth. You could even try a pesto for a herby, Italian twist. Think of it as channeling your inner Jamie Oliver and adapting the recipe to your family's tastes!
Can I add vegetables to this Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and add some extra flavour. Broccoli, peas, corn, or even sautéed mushrooms would all be delicious additions. Just toss them in with the chicken and ranch mixture before layering the casserole. It's a cracking way to get your five-a-day!
Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-35g |
| Fiber | 2-4g |
