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Loaded Chicken Bacon Ranch Broccoli Rice Casserole

loaded chicken bacon ranch broccoli rice casserole - featured image
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This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch sauce, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli under a blanket of melty cheese. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing family dinner that’s easy to customize and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded or diced (about 1 lb)
  • 6–8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
  • 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces (steam or blanch for best results)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz or 3 tablespoons)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
  • Extra veggies (optional: diced bell pepper, mushrooms, spinach)
  • Hot sauce or red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. If using fresh rice, cook 1.5 cups dry rice according to package directions for about 3 cups cooked. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp (8-10 minutes). Drain on paper towels, then crumble or chop.
  4. Steam broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until just tender and bright green, or sauté in bacon skillet for 2 minutes. Let cool.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, milk, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. Add a splash more milk if needed for a pourable consistency.
  6. Add cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, half the bacon, 1.5 cups cheddar, and 0.5 cup mozzarella to the sauce. Stir until well coated.
  7. Spoon mixture into prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon over the top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and lightly golden and casserole is bubbling. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  9. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, double-check ranch seasoning and bacon. Swap rice for cauliflower rice for low-carb. Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for speed. Shred your own cheese for best melt. Don’t overcook broccoli. Assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Leftovers freeze well.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, bacon ranch casserole, broccoli rice casserole, family dinner, comfort food, easy casserole, meal prep, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/loaded-chicken-bacon-ranch-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-family-dinner/