Introduction
Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and nutritious broccoli. This casserole is a perfect option for a hearty family dinner or a potluck gathering. It is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you are a fan of ranch dressing or simply looking for a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this casserole is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Follow these simple steps to prepare the Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Casserole:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out in an even layer.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations
Here are a few variations you can try to add some variety to your Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Casserole:
– Add some cooked pasta, such as penne or rotini, to make it a heartier meal.
– Substitute the chicken with cooked turkey or ham for a different flavor.
– Swap the ranch dressing for a different creamy dressing, such as Caesar or blue cheese.
– Sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the casserole before baking for a crispy texture.
Tips
Consider the following tips to enhance your Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Casserole:
– Cook the bacon until it is crispy before crumbling it into the casserole for added texture.
– Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for a couple of minutes before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender.
– If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the casserole mixture.
– Serve the casserole with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Casserole is a delightful combination of flavors that will surely become a family favorite. With its creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and nutritious broccoli, this casserole offers a satisfying and wholesome meal option. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or simply want to enjoy a comforting dinner at home, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and indulge in the deliciousness of this easy-to-make casserole.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. Simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the covering and follow the baking instructions.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole can be frozen for later use. After baking and cooling the casserole, divide it into individual servings or as desired. Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. The casserole can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use fresh ranch dressing instead of store-bought?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer to use homemade ranch dressing, feel free to do so. Just make sure the consistency is similar to that of the store-bought dressing. You can adjust the amount of milk in the recipe accordingly to achieve the desired creaminess.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Casserole
A delicious and comforting casserole dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and nutritious broccoli. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
-
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out in an even layer.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
-
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
