Once you make Crack Chicken Casserole, you’ll understand why it’s called that. This creamy, cheesy mix of chicken, bacon, ranch, and pasta is so good it’s nearly impossible to stop eating. It’s one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes that you can throw together any night of the week and watch disappear right off the table.
The first time I made this, it was one of those “clean out the fridge” nights. I had leftover chicken, some cooked pasta, and a few slices of bacon. A quick stir of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheddar later — and dinner magic happened. My family devoured it. Now, it sits right beside my Loaded Cornbread Casserole and Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole as one of our all-time favorites.
Crack Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooked chicken, bacon (reserve a little for topping), half the cheese, and pasta. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Top with chopped green onions and serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Crack Chicken Casserole
This recipe hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, salty, and savory. The ranch seasoning gives it a tangy kick, the bacon adds crunch, and the creamy sauce ties everything together. It’s simple enough for weeknights but good enough for potlucks and holidays, too.
If you love ultra-comforting, family-style recipes like my Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf or Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, this casserole will fit right into your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works perfectly)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for topping)
If you enjoy creamy, comforting flavors, you’ll also love my Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup — same cozy texture, different twist.
How to Make Crack Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add cooked chicken, bacon (reserve a little for topping), half the cheese, and pasta. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Transfer and Top
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon on top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped green onions and serve warm.
If you love creamy casseroles, this recipe feels like the cozy cousin of my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole.
Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken: It saves time and adds flavor.
- Soften the cream cheese: It mixes easier and makes the sauce smoother.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: It’ll cook a bit more in the oven.
- Make it extra crispy: Broil the top for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Little details like these are what make my Cajun Potato Soup taste restaurant-quality every time.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Low-Carb Version: Skip the pasta and mix in steamed cauliflower.
- Buffalo Twist: Add a splash of buffalo sauce for heat.
- Loaded Veggie: Stir in peas, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition.
If you love customizable comfort food, my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup gives you the same creative freedom.
What to Serve With It
This casserole is rich and hearty, so it pairs perfectly with lighter sides like:
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- My Cranberry Apple Coleslaw for a refreshing contrast
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Reheat: Bake at 325°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions until hot.
Like my Christmas Bread Recipe, this dish reheats beautifully — and the flavors get even better the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning?
You can, but the dry mix gives more concentrated flavor.
2. What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar melts perfectly, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella are great options too.
3. Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes — just drain it well before mixing.
The Final Bite
This Crack Chicken Casserole is the definition of comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor in every bite. It’s easy enough for weeknights but delicious enough for a weekend gathering.
Serve it alongside my Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls or Cheesy Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread for the ultimate cozy meal combo.