Description

Cheesy Ranch Chicken Casserole is a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts, creamy ranch sauce, and plenty of cheese. This dish is a comforting, easy-to-make meal, perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings. Enjoy its irresistible flavor and simple preparation!

Ingredients

Scale

6 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon paprika
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 packet (1 ounce / 2 tablespoons) dry ranch seasoning
1 medium white onion, finely diced
1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
8 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled, divided

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a small bowl, combine paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Pour the flour onto a small plate or bowl.
Coat each seasoned chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess flour before setting them aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Cook the chicken breasts for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. They do not need to be fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 to 8 minutes until softened.
Stir in the ranch seasoning and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Add the cream of chicken soup and heavy cream, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
Incorporate 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, then mix in half of the crumbled bacon, reserving the rest for later.
Pour the ranch cheese sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish.
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 minutes.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon.
Return to the oven and bake for an extra 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving, spooning extra sauce over each portion.

Notes

For extra flavor, try using homemade ranch seasoning.
Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition and color.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 1200mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 120mg