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Chicken Bacon Casserole

This chicken bacon casserole recipe is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich homemade sauce. It's baked until golden and bubbly, making it an easy comfort food dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
  • 12 ounces penne pasta cooked
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
  6. Stir in the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese, and the mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Fold in the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, and three-quarters of the crumbled bacon until evenly coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese and the reserved bacon.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes for a golden top if desired.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.

Notes

  • Cook the bacon until it's crispy, then let it drain on paper towels before crumbling. This keeps it crisp even after baking.
  • Undercook the pasta by 1 to 2 minutes since it will continue cooking in the oven and absorb some of the sauce.
  • Reserve a small handful of bacon and cheese for the topping to create a crisp, flavorful finish.
  • If making the casserole ahead, keep the topping separate until just before baking so the bacon stays crisp and the cheese browns evenly.
  • Add cooked broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms if you'd like to make the casserole more filling without changing the baking time.