Name: Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487313H3M10S
Total time: PT-487313H3M10S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast (boneless, skinless); 1 bag (about 24 oz) frozen hashbrowns (or 4 cups diced potatoes); 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping); 1/2 cup milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup cooked beef crumbles (optional, for topping); Green onions or chives (optional, for garnish)

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Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is a deliciously hearty dish that combines tender chicken, creamy ranch-flavored potatoes, and melted cheese in one comforting casserole. It’s the perfect dish for a family dinner or to bring to a potluck. Packed with flavor and easy to make, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The creamy ranch dressing adds a zesty, savory kick, while the loaded potato toppings provide a satisfying texture that makes each bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of creamy ranch potatoes, tender chicken, and gooey cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare and filled with flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
1 bag (about 24 oz) frozen hashbrowns (or 4 cups diced potatoes)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup cooked beef crumbles (optional, for topping)
Green onions or chives (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the potato mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine.
Assemble the casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spread the frozen hashbrowns (or diced potatoes) in an even layer. Add the shredded chicken on top of the potatoes. Pour the creamy ranch mixture over the chicken and potatoes, spreading it out evenly.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole, covering the entire dish.
Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. After the cooking time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
Optional toppings: Once baked, remove from the oven and top with cooked beef crumbles (if using) and chopped green onions or chives for extra flavor.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35-45 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, add vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or bell peppers to the casserole.
Use different cheese: Feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the ranch mixture for a spicy kick.
Make it lighter: Use light sour cream, fat-free cream of chicken soup, and reduced-fat cheese to make the dish lighter.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! To freeze, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until heated through.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated leftovers, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply peel and dice them into small cubes, then cook them in the skillet until tender before assembling the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just pop it into the oven and bake as instructed.

3. Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred it and add it to the casserole in place of the cooked chicken breasts.

4. How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a spoonful of hot sauce to the ranch mixture.

5. Can I use a different cream soup?

Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, or any other cream soup that you prefer.

6. Can I make this casserole with ground beef instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with cooked ground beef or turkey for a different take on the casserole.

7. How do I prevent the top from burning?

If you’re worried about the casserole browning too much on top, you can cover the casserole with aluminum foil for the first 25-30 minutes of baking, and then uncover it for the remaining time to let the cheese melt and brown.

8. How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the casserole.

9. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, you can make it dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese, sour cream, and cream of mushroom or celery soup.

10. Can I add breadcrumbs to the topping?

Yes! For a crispy topping, sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs or panko on top of the cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines all the comforting flavors of a hearty meal in one pan. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and great for leftovers. With creamy potatoes, tender chicken, melted cheese, and a tangy ranch dressing, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress!