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This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole—a celebration of all-American flavor in a pan of juicy chicken, hearty rice, green broccoli, and crispy bacon—is here to upgrade your weeknight dinner game in the most delicious way possible.

Cheesy chicken bacon ranch casserole with rice and broccoli in a baking dish with a spoon

Introducing a crowd-pleasing casserole recipe that:

  • Is both easy and healthy (like this popular Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole).
  • Hits every food group in a single casserole dish (like Chicken Tetrazzini).
  • Includes the most crowd-pleasing trifecta of flavors perhaps ever (hello, chicken, bacon, and ranch).
  • Will undoubtedly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Meet today’s chicken bacon ranch casserole with rice and broccoli!

(CBR lovers, don’t miss my Chicken Bacon Ranch Fries and this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta too.)

A dish of easy chicken bacon ranch casserole with rice and cheese

5 Star Review

“If I could give it more stars I would! This was delicious! Thank you for making family-friendly recipes that have an extra health kick. I will be making this regularly!! ”

— Catherine —

How to Make Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Despite the indulgent impression, this healthy chicken bacon ranch casserole is still slimmed down and made with simple ingredients.

Unlike many recipes you’ll find online, this is a chicken bacon ranch casserole without Alfredo sauce (if that is what you are looking for, check out Chicken Alfredo Bake), bottled ranch dressing (we can do better), or any dreaded “cream of” soup in a can.

All you’ll find here are real ingredients for a hearty, wholesome, comforting dinner you can feel good about eating.


The Ingredients

  • Chicken. The mildness of chicken lets the bacon and ranch flavors shine in this recipe, and it adds healthy protein. Both chicken breasts or chicken thighs would be tasty here.

Substitution Tip

For this recipe, I prefer to sauté the chicken breasts or chicken thighs in the spices, but if you want to make this recipe even easier, you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or prep shredded chicken in advance.

  • Bacon. Guaranteed to please! (For another bacon-topped wonder, don’t miss this Cauliflower Casserole.)

Substitution Tip

While you can use turkey bacon, it’s not my first choice. A little bit of the real deal, with its smoky flavor and drippings goes a long way.

  • Instant Brown Rice. This quick-cooking whole grain makes rice-based casseroles like this Broccoli Rice Casserole come together FAST.
  • Chicken Broth. Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water enhances the flavor of the dish. I recommend using low-sodium chicken broth to make sure the final casserole isn’t too salty.
  • Broccoli. Adds a serving of vegetables to make this a true all-in-one meal. The taste of broccoli goes naturally with the bacon too. Plus, broccoli offers fiber and vitamins.

Market Swap

Want to add extra veggies? Take a note from this Mexican Chicken Casserole and add diced bell peppers. Carrots would be yummy too.

  • Spices. The secret to the ranch flavor. I used a combination of garlic powder, salt, onion powder, dill weed, pepper, and cayenne.
  • Flour + Milk. To help thicken and bind all the ingredients together. You can use any milk you have on hand.
  • Greek Yogurt. Instead of making this a chicken bacon ranch casserole with cream cheese, I used Greek yogurt (as seen in Turkey Tetrazzini). Unlike cream cheese (or canned soup), Greek yogurt lends creaminess plus a boost of protein without extra fat or calories.
  • Cheese. For the deliciously cheesy topping and ooey-gooey casserole factor. I used a mixture of Mozzarella and sharp cheddar.

Substitution Tip

Other tasty options for this cheesy chicken bacon ranch casserole include shredded Monterrey jack, gouda, fontina, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick.

A spoon scooping healthy chicken bacon ranch casserole with broccoli and rice

The Directions

  1. Cook the rice and broccoli together in the chicken broth.
  2. Cook the bacon and set aside. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken in a few of the ranch spices, then remove it to a plate.
  3. Whisk together the flour and milk to make the creamy sauce. Add the yogurt and a portion of both kinds of cheese.
  4. Stir all the casserole ingredients together and transfer to a baking dish.
  5. Top with the remaining cheese and bake the chicken bacon ranch casserole for 15 minutes at 375 degrees F.
  6. Remove, sprinkle with bacon, and return to the oven until bubbly and golden. Let stand a few minutes, then ENJOY!

Dietary Note

The BEST chicken bacon ranch casserole without canned soup in a casserole dish with a spoon

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate chicken bacon ranch casserole in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
  • To Reheat. You can rewarm this casserole in the oven at 375 degrees F until hot in the center or microwave gently until heated through.
  • To Freeze. Freeze individual portions or large quantities of the casserole in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container or ziptop bag for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Meal Plan Tip

Prepare the recipe up until the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 1 day. When ready to bake, let the casserole come to room temperature, then bake as directed.

A dish of keto quick and easy chicken bacon ranch casserole with rice and broccoli

What to Serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Bake

We love serving this chicken bacon ranch casserole with biscuits, salads, extra veggies, or applesauce.

Step aside chicken bacon ranch pizza or any other chicken bacon ranch pasta—there’s a new CBR in town!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Chicken Bacon Casserole With Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning?

Sure! While I have only made the recipe as it is written, if you have a packet of ranch seasoning in your pantry, you could experiment with swapping the spices in the recipe card for an equal amount of the Hidden Valley seasoning.

Can I Use A Different Kind of Rice?

For the recipe proportions and cooking times in this recipe to work as written, you must use instant brown rice, or it will not turn out. If you prefer to make this recipe with long grain rice, adapt this Chicken and Rice Casserole (which uses already cooked brown or wild rice) instead.

Can I Swap Cauliflower Rice?

If you are looking to make this recipe low carb (or keto), I imagine this recipe could be easily adapted with modifications. For example, I would suggest steaming the broccoli florets separately. Then, instead of rice, stir in 4 cups of uncooked cauliflower rice into the cream sauce. If you give it a try, I would love to hear your results.

Can I Use Quinoa?

For an alternative grain that’s still gluten free, check out this Broccoli Quinoa Casserole. Or, you can follow the cauliflower rice suggestions above, but use your cooked grain of choice.

Is This Casserole Spicy?

No, this casserole is not spicy as written. If you’d like to give it a kick, add a few pinches of cayenne pepper.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

4.53 from 36 votes
This easy chicken bacon ranch casserole with rice and broccoli is a fast, all-in-one meal the whole family will love. No canned soup required!

Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 14 ounces low-sodium chicken broth (1 can)
  • 2 cups instant brown rice if you use white rice or non-instant rice, the cooking time and amount of liquid needed may differ
  • 1 pound broccoli florets chopped into bite-sized pieces (about 8 cups)
  • 6 slices bacon cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts chopped into bite-size pieces
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt divided
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder divided
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder divided
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill weed divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper divided
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk divided
  • 2/3 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
  • 3/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese divided
  • 3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese divided

Instructions
 

  • Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a deep 9×13-inch baking dish or a 3-quart casserole dish.
  • Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot, then add the rice. Return to a boil, add the broccoli to the top of the rice (no need to stir it together), then cover, reduce the heat to low, and let cook for 5 minutes. Remove the pot from heat and let sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Most of the cooking liquid should be absorbed, and the broccoli should be crisp-tender but still be a little too crunchy to eat.
  • Meanwhile, heat a Dutch oven or other large deep pot over medium-low. Add the bacon and let cook until it is crisp and the fat has rendered, about 8 minutes. With a slotted spoon, remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pan.
  • Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the chicken, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dill weed, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 4 to 6 minutes, then remove to a plate. Being careful not to burn yourself, wipe the pot clean with a paper towel.
  • Reduce the heat to medium. In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the flour and 1/2 cup of milk. Pour the mixture into the pot, then add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and creamy, 7 to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dill weed, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and cayenne. Stir in the Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of Mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
  • To the pot, add the rice and broccoli mixture, the reserved chicken, and half of the reserved bacon. Stir gently to combine. Spoon the mixture into the prepared dish and top with the remaining 1/4 cup Mozzarella and 1/4 cup cheddar cheese. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining bacon over the top. Return to the oven and bake for 5 to 10 additional minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes, then serve.

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Place the baked casserole in an airtight storage container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • TO REHEAT: You can rewarm this casserole in the oven at 375 degrees F until hot in the center or microwave gently until heated through.
  • TO FREEZE: You can freeze individual portions or large quantities of this casserole. Place your desired amount into an airtight, freezer-safe storage container or ziptop bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • TO MAKE AHEAD: Prepare the recipe up until the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 1 day. When ready to bake, let the casserole come to room temperature, then bake as directed. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 6)Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 38gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 96mgPotassium: 753mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 763IUVitamin C: 69mgCalcium: 352mgIron: 2mg

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Erin Clarke

Hi, I'm Erin Clarke, and I'm fearlessly dedicated to making healthy food that's affordable, easy-to-make, and best of all DELISH. I'm the author and recipe developer here at wellplated.com and of The Well Plated Cookbook. I adore both sweets and veggies, and I am on a mission to save you time and dishes. WELCOME!

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46 Comments

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  1. I’ve made a lot of Erin’s recipes (and by a lot, I mean I’m religious to making at least one every week). This one takes more time and a little more effort than her other meals, but holy cow is it worth it. A crowd pleaser even for a husband that is a very picky eater. Filling and absolutely delicious! 5 stars

    1. This MADE my day! I’m so happy you enjoyed this recipe, Sydney! Thank you for taking the time to share this kind review!

    1. YAY! I’m so happy to hear that this recipe was a hit, Erin! Thank you for taking the time to share this kind review!

  2. Fantastic  recipe – fully of flavor and easy to pull together.  Even the pickiest eaters in my family enjoyed.  This will definitely be on regular rotation in our house.5 stars

  3. Made this recipe last night. It required some extra effort but so worth it as all the flavors were spot on! My next door neighbor who I cook for said it was “excellent” and shes a great cook!
    My only negative is that it was a little dry but that may be due to my plate sitting in the microwave for several hours before I heated it up .
    Another winner, Erin!
    PS I just pulled your cabbage steaks out of the oven!
    Can’t wait to try them and post a comment on them.5 stars

    1. I’m so happy to hear that this recipe was a hit, Kathleen! Thank you for taking the time to share this kind review!

  4. I have not tried this recipe yet, as I just found it. I did read through the directions, though. I would think you could also use up leftover rice in this dish (when I make rice, I make extra to use later) and that would save the step of making up the rice the night you wish to make this recipe. I will be adding it to the menu.

    1. Hi Susan! You could experiment with cooked rice, but the cooking time and amount of liquid needed may differ. If you decide to play around with it, I’d love to hear how it goes!

      1. Loved the casserole. I did make up regular brown rice in a rice maker first. Then proceeded with the recipe. Turned out great and even froze a pan full for future use.5 stars

        1. I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Susan! Thank you for sharing this kind review!

  5. Just made this tonight and it was excellent! actually added some ranch dressing and mixed it with the Greek yogurt, and it tasted amazing! Will defiantly make again. 5 stars

  6. Hi Erin! I am so happy I came across your website. The recipes are so fun to make and the instructions are very thorough. First, I made the Chicken Parmesan to try it out. It was so good! My family loved it! Since then, (which was about 2 weeks ago) I have used your recipes for most nights of the week (desert included.) I am amazed every time at how yummy and simple the recipes are, yet the flavors are complex! What amazes me more though is that my family is actually happily eating the food I put in front of them … and we are all eating together for dinner and having a good time … and the kids love helping me prepare the meals … and my husband (who tends to make many comments to help me improve my cooking) walks into the kitchen, looks at what I’m doing and says, “I’m just going to leave you to it.” #LifeChanger5 stars

    1. This MAKES my day, Catherine! Thank you for taking the time to try my recipes and for sharing this kind review!

  7. This looks amazing! Is it possible to prep everything earlier in the afternoon and then refrigerate it until ready to cook it or does it need to go straight to the oven?

    1. Hi Katy! Are you hoping to refrigerate the unbaked casserole? If so, this would be a complete experiment, as I’ve never tested it myself. You could also bake the casserole fully, store it in the refrigerator, and rewarm in the oven just before serving. I hope this helps!

  8. Husband took 2 bites and said, “OMG save this recipe, please.” So, I guess you could say it is a winner. ☺️5 stars

  9. Second recipe of yours that I have made this week and if I could give it more stars I would! This was delicious! I actually did about 1/3 cup of rice and the rest cauliflower rice and my husband, who won’t go near cauliflower rice, had NO CLUE it was mostly cauliflower rice and loved it (he still doesn’t know). He even asked for leftovers, and that never happens! Best part is he really couldn’t tell it was a “lightened casserole” with things like Greek yogurt and extra veggies. Thank you for making family friendly recipes that have an extra health kick. I will be making this regularly!! 5 stars

  10. Delicious!! I substituted cauliflower rice and quinoa for rice! Also used oat yogurt and oat milk (same measurements as recipe suggested) and it turned out AMAZING!!5 stars

  11. Hi! So excited to try this tonight! Didn’t realize until now it was recommended to cook in a 3qt dish, which I don’t have. What would the cooking time be fora 13X9 pan? Can’t wait!

    1. Hi Taylor! Typically a 3-quart casserole dish is 13×9, so you should be fine to prepare the recipe as directed. I hope you enjoyed it!

    1. Hi April! I’ve only tested the recipe as written, but you could experiment with other veggies that cook in a similar amount of time. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!

    1. Hi Michelle! You should start with the rice uncooked, as we will cook it in the recipe. I hope this helps!

  12. I love cooking and frequently cook from scratch and Erin makes it even more enjoyable because of her basic yet creative, healthy yet delicious recipes!

    One issue with this recipe – it took MUCH longer than 15 minutes to prep. I was in a hurry so I worked fast but it still took me over 30 minutes to put together. I find this is a frequent issue with other recipes as well. Suggestion – try timing a cook who has never made the recipe and then using that as the guide for the prep time noted at the beginning of the recipe.

    Keep it up Erin! I am enjoying your new cookbook as well :).4 stars

  13. Recipe turned out really good! Flavors were good and recipe was extremely easy to follow. This is the second recipe I have tried and it turned out great. Highly recommend! I also love the listed subs as I make everything gluten for my husband!5 stars

  14. Hi Erin! I’m making this tonight and only have white instant rice. Do I add more liquid than the recipe calls for?

    1. Hi Jennifer, I’ve only made this with instant brown rice. I would check my box of instant rice that you are using and compare the amounts of liquid and time on there. Hope you enjoy it!

  15. Made this tonight. Very tasty recipe. It’s not a quick dinner as there are many things going on separately like cooking rice and broccoli, cooking the bacon, sautéing the chicken, making the sauce, etc, but totally worth it in the end. It helps to have everything measured out ahead of time so you are ready for each step. My husband loved it and he doesn’t even like brocolli! Will definitely make it again, thanks Erin. I’ve made SEVERAL of your recipes and they never disappoint. I even tell my family about your website to check it out.5 stars

  16. Hi Erin! To make sure I understand-if subbing cauliflower rice, the rice will be going into the oven uncooked, correct? Will the chicken broth therefore be omitted? I am worried about losing flavor.

    Thanks!

    1. Hi Ashley! You’ll stir in 4 cups of uncooked cauliflower rice into the cream sauce, that is correct. You wouldn’t need to use the chicken broth unless you wanted to cook your broccoli in it, but I don’t think it’s necessary. Hope you enjoy it!

  17. This recipe was such a let down. Super dry and very lackluster in flavor. I have made quite a few different variations of chicken bacon ranch casserole and this was by far the worst. We ended up mixing ranch in with each serving so it had some flavor outside the bacon and cheese. I recommend finding another recipe, plus most are much easier than this one.1 star

    1. Sorry to hear that you had trouble with the recipe, Michael. The amounts, flavorings and timing have worked well for myself (and others) so I wished it would have been a hit for you too! I know it can be so disappointing to try a new recipe and it does not turn out for you.

  18. I’m wondering if there is a way to use leftover rotisserie chicken breasts and still have almost as good taste as fresh chicken cooked in bacon grease? Am I dreaming? (I have about 10 frozen leftover Costco rotisserie chicken breasts…)

  19. I made this as directed and it was very dry. The broccoli didn’t cook or soften at all in the pot or in the oven, and I ended up adding quite a bit more milk just to moisten the casserole as I was mixing it together. Overall the flavor was really bland. I added some paprika and more seasonings to give it some flavor. It make a lot, which will now go to waste since my family didn’t like it and won’t eat leftovers they don’t like.1 star

    1. I’m sorry to hear the recipe wasn’t to your taste, Gail. I know it’s disappointing to try a new recipe and not enjoy it. I (and many other readers) have enjoyed it, so I really wish they would’ve been a hit for you too!