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There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty casserole that fills your home with tantalizing aromas. Growing up, my family had a few go-to recipes that would make an appearance almost weekly, and one of our favorites was a creamy chicken and bacon dish that would have us all gathered around the dinner table in no time. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich, creamy sauce created a meal that was not just filling but also incredibly satisfying. As I moved out and started my own kitchen adventures, I quickly realized how versatile and satisfying casseroles could be. Today, I’m excited to share with you my take on this beloved classic: the Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence.

Baked Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole! This easy-to-make dish blends tender shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich creamy sauce, all baked together with cheesy goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s a satisfying one-dish meal that's bursting with flavor. With simple ingredients like penne pasta and ranch dressing, you can create heartwarming family memories around the dinner table. Dive into a recipe that combines nostalgia and deliciousness!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded

6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

1 cup uncooked penne pasta

1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup frozen peas (optional for added color and nutrition)

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot when your casserole is ready to bake.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it until al dente following the package instructions, typically about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ensuring you don’t overcook it as it will bake further in the oven.

      Prepare the Casserole Base: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken with the crumbled crispy bacon. Add the ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well integrated.

        Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the chicken mixture. Add cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, frozen peas (if using), and diced red bell pepper. Stir carefully to coat everything evenly without breaking the pasta.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Scoop the casserole mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

            Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

              Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

                - Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings

                  Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole—perfect for family dinners or potlucks! Enjoy!