Here’s the full recipe for Chicken Bacon Ranch Enchilada Casserole:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- Salt and garlic powder, to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 packet ranch seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Milk, as needed
- Flour tortillas
- Cooked and crumbled bacon or bacon bits
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby jack, or your choice)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the shredded chicken with salt and garlic powder to taste.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, ranch dressing, cream of chicken soup, and ranch seasoning. Add milk gradually until the mixture reaches a thick but pourable consistency.
- Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of flour tortillas over the sauce, tearing them to fit if needed.
- Spread half of the shredded chicken over the tortillas, followed by half of the crumbled bacon or bacon bits, and a layer of shredded cheese.
- Pour half of the remaining sauce over the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with another layer of tortillas, chicken, bacon, cheese, and sauce.
- Top the casserole with a final layer of tortillas and pour the remaining sauce over them.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese and additional bacon bits, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Slice and serve, and enjoy your Chicken Bacon Ranch Enchilada Casserole!
Here are some popular questions and their answers related to Chicken Bacon Ranch Enchilada Casserole:
- Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken?
- Yes, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and use it in place of cooked chicken in the recipe.
- Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
- Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with cooked ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork, depending on your preference.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating.
- How long does this casserole keep in the refrigerator?
- This casserole will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Enchilada Casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze this casserole for future meals. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the recipe instructions.
- Can I use homemade ranch dressing instead of store-bought?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use homemade ranch dressing if you prefer. Just make sure it’s well-mixed before adding it to the casserole mixture.
- Can I omit the bacon or use a vegetarian alternative?
- Yes, you can omit the bacon if you prefer a vegetarian version of this dish. Alternatively, you can use vegetarian bacon or omit it altogether.
- Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
- Of course! Feel free to add extra vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, or black olives to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
- What side dishes pair well with Chicken Bacon Ranch Enchilada Casserole?
- This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or Mexican-inspired sides like rice and beans.
- Can I customize the level of spice in this recipe?
- Yes, you can adjust the level of spice by using mild or spicy ingredients for the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and any additional seasonings you choose to add.