BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe

This cheesy, smoky BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole is made with tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and penne pasta, ready in 40 minutes. Pulling the dish from the oven reveals a bubbling layer of melted cheddar that smells incredible. I love making this on busy weeknights when everyone craves comfort food.

What Makes This Version Different

I used to struggle with casseroles drying out in the oven. The secret here is tossing the hot pasta with a generous mix of tangy BBQ sauce and creamy ranch dressing before baking.

When I started adding crispy bacon directly into the cheese topping, the texture contrast improved drastically. It keeps the chicken moist while giving you a satisfying crunch in every single bite.

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BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole Ingredients

• 16 oz penne pasta
• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels
• 1/4 cup diced red onion

How To Make BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the penne in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, then drain well.
2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, corn, and red onion.
3. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
4. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake and Serve: Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling around the edges.

Recipe Tips

• Shred the chicken fresh: Warm chicken absorbs the BBQ and ranch flavors much better than cold, pre-cooked meat.
• Do not overcook the pasta: Stop boiling when it is strictly al dente because it will continue to soften in the oven.
• Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting into a smooth, gooey layer.

What To Serve With BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the rich, creamy flavors of this dish perfectly. You can also serve it with garlic bread or roasted green beans to round out the meal.

How To Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole tightly wrapped in foil for up to 3 months, thawing overnight before baking.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, pulling meat from a store-bought rotisserie chicken saves prep time and keeps the casserole very moist.

What kind of BBQ sauce is best?

A thick, sweet and smoky Kansas City style sauce balances the tanginess of the ranch dressing beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

Nutrition

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Total Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg
• Sodium: 890 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 54 g
• Protein: 28 g

Try More Recipes:

• Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
• Buffalo Chicken Potato Casserole Recipe
• Creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe