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BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole
Laura

BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole

This BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole combines tangy barbecue sauce, creamy ranch dressing, tender chicken, and melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food dinner. Ready in 45 minutes with simple ingredients!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded about 3 cups
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta cooked al dente
  • 1.25 cups ranch dressing full-fat preferred
  • 0.75 cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
  • 1 cup frozen sweet corn thawed
  • 2 Roma tomatoes diced
  • 0.33 cup red onion finely diced
  • 2.5 cups Monterey Jack cheese shredded, divided
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 green onions sliced for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch casserole dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Large pot
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than recommended. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, corn, diced tomatoes, and red onion. Toss gently to distribute everything evenly.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and BBQ sauce until smooth and fully combined.
  5. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and pasta mixture. Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is coated and the cheese is distributed throughout.
  6. Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese, making sure to cover the surface completely.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are just starting to turn golden.
  8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and optional bacon bits if desired.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and saves time
  • Don't overcook the pasta before baking or it will become mushy
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier portioning
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
  • Freeze before baking for up to 3 months for best results