Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy goodness in one hearty meal. It is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen. This casserole is easy to make and offers a satisfying crunch with crispy French fried onions on top. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that makes clean-up a breeze.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup cooked rice
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup French fried onions (for topping)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheese, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the French fried onions on top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the onions are golden brown.
Let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole

Serve Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole warm, directly from the baking dish. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to make a complete meal. This dish can be enjoyed on its own, or you can add your favorite sides for a heartier dinner.

How to Store Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through or microwave individual portions.

Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole

Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding.
Feel free to add more vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

Variation

You can make this casserole with turkey or ham instead of chicken, and swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw completely before baking.

2. Is there a way to make it healthier?
Absolutely! You can use brown rice, low-fat cheese, and add more vegetables to make it healthier if desired.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just make sure to cover it well so it doesn’t dry out.