Description
Welcome, food lovers! If you’re searching for the best comfort food recipe, look no further than this Cheesy Bacon Chicken Casserole. Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a must-try dinner recipe that’s both family-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you love easy casseroles or simply want a hearty meal, this chicken casserole recipe will become a staple in your home!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini works best)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup steamed broccoli (for a healthier twist)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for extra spice)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (for added richness)
Instructions
Step1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook and shred the chicken if not already prepared.
- Fry the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
Step2: Mix the Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until well blended.
Step3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, followed by the shredded chicken.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the top and mix gently.
- Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the mixture.
- Top with crumbled bacon for added crunch and flavor.
Step4: Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden brown crust, broil the casserole for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Step5: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- Make it keto-friendly by substituting pasta with cauliflower rice.
- Enhance the flavor by adding a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika.