Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This chicken bacon ranch tater tot casserole transforms humble ingredients into a crowd-pleasing comfort food masterpiece that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. The combination of crispy tater tots, tender chicken, and smoky bacon all wrapped in a creamy ranch sauce creates the ultimate weeknight dinner solution.

I first created this casserole when my sister and her four hungry teenagers showed up unexpectedly one Sunday afternoon. The combination of crispy potatoes with creamy ranch sauce was such a hit that it has become our go-to solution whenever the extended family gathers at my house.

Ingredients

• Bacon slices: adds smoky flavor and delicious texture. Choose thick cut for best results
• Cooked shredded chicken: provides lean protein. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here
• Frozen tater tots: creates the crispy crown of the casserole. Opt for extra crispy variety
• Ranch dressing: delivers that classic tangy flavor profile everyone loves
• Milk: helps create the creamy sauce base. Whole milk makes the richest sauce
• All purpose flour: thickens the sauce to perfect consistency
• Butter: creates the roux base for the sauce and adds richness
• Shredded mild cheddar cheese: forms that irresistible golden cheesy crust
• Salt and pepper: balances and enhances all flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bacon:

Cook your bacon until perfectly crispy either in a skillet or microwave according to package directions. The key is achieving that ideal texture where it crumbles easily without being burnt. Drain thoroughly on paper towels to remove excess grease before crumbling into bite sized pieces.

Prepare the Chicken:

If not using leftover or rotisserie chicken, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and either bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or poach in simmering water for 15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow to cool slightly before shredding with two forks. The chicken should be pulled into bite sized pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole.

Create the Ranch Sauce:

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until fully liquid but not browned. Sprinkle flour over melted butter and whisk continuously for a full minute to cook out the raw flour taste. This creates a blonde roux which will thicken our sauce. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in ranch dressing along with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Casserole:

Combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon and prepared ranch sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly to ensure even coating of all ingredients. This mixture should be creamy but not soupy. Spread evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating a level base for our casserole.

Add the Tater Tot Layer:

Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the chicken mixture. For maximum crispiness, place them in neat rows rather than randomly scattering. This ensures even cooking and that satisfying crunch in every bite. Sprinkle the entire surface generously with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the assembled casserole in your preheated 350°F oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Look for deep golden brown tater tots and bubbly melted cheese around the edges. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F to ensure food safety.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the finished casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief cooling period helps the sauce set slightly so each serving holds together better on the plate. The casserole will still be piping hot but much easier to portion and serve neatly.

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The ranch dressing is truly the secret ingredient that elevates this casserole beyond ordinary. My grandmother always made her own ranch from buttermilk and fresh herbs, but I find a good quality store-bought version works perfectly in this recipe. The way it melds with the chicken and bacon creates a flavor combination that reminds me of Sunday family dinners when all my cousins would gather around the table.

Make Ahead Instructions

This casserole is perfect for meal prep and planning ahead. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off, then add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time. The results are identical to making it fresh, making this perfect for busy families or when entertaining guests.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Turkey bacon works beautifully for a lighter option. Ground beef or turkey can replace the chicken for a different flavor profile. Sweet potato tots create a nutritious twist with added vitamins. For a vegetable boost, add a cup of frozen peas and carrots to the chicken mixture before assembling. If ranch dressing isn’t your favorite, substitute alfredo sauce or a mixture of sour cream and cream of chicken soup instead.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For casual gatherings, serve with additional ranch dressing on the side for dipping. A side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to complete the meal. For a fun presentation at parties, portion into individual ramekins before baking for personal servings that delight guests.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?

Yes, store-bought shredded chicken can save time and works perfectly in this dish. Just ensure it's plain and unseasoned to maintain the balance of flavors.

→ Can I substitute the ranch dressing?

If you don't have ranch dressing, you can substitute with a mix of mayonnaise and a bit of plain Greek yogurt, along with a dash of Italian seasoning for a similar flavor profile.

→ How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce and ensure that your tater tots and ranch dressing are also labeled gluten-free.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or a cup of frozen mixed vegetables can be mixed with the chicken and bacon for added flavor and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.