Crack Chicken Casserole

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly savory, this Crack Chicken Casserole brings together everything you love about comfort food in one dish. With tender shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, crispy bacon, and a golden, buttery cracker topping, it’s no wonder this casserole earns its “crack” nickname. It satisfies cravings and keeps people coming back for seconds—or thirds!

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or an easy meal prep option, this casserole bakes up beautifully with minimal prep. It hits all the right notes: creamy, crunchy, smoky, and just a little tangy thanks to ranch seasoning. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need something to warm up your weeknight, this dish delivers big-time flavor with very little effort.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cheesy goodness of Crack Chicken Casserole, make sure you have the right tools on hand to ensure a smooth prep and perfect bake:

• Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a spacious bowl to combine the chicken, cheeses, and mix-ins thoroughly without spilling over.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: This is the ideal size for even baking and a bubbly golden top. A ceramic or glass dish works great for heat distribution.
• Hand Mixer or Spatula: For softening and blending cream cheese into the mix. A hand mixer makes it easier to break it down evenly.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision helps keep the ratios of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy just right.
• Aluminum Foil: To tent the casserole for the first part of baking and prevent over-browning.
• Cooking Spray or Butter: Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Having these tools ready will help streamline your prep time and guarantee that each layer of your Crack Chicken Casserole is flavorful and cooked to perfection.

---

Ingredients for the Crack Chicken Casserole

Every ingredient in this recipe adds a layer of texture or flavor, making it truly addictive. Here’s what you’ll need and why each plays a key role:

• Shredded Cooked Chicken – The base of the dish; tender and protein-packed. Rotisserie chicken makes this step super easy.
• Cream Cheese – Adds luxurious creaminess and binds the casserole together.
• Sour Cream – Brings tanginess that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix – This is the flavor bomb; it gives the dish its signature taste.
• Cheddar Cheese (Shredded) – Melty and sharp, it ties everything together with its gooey goodness.
• Bacon (Cooked and Crumbled) – Adds a smoky, salty crunch that elevates every bite.
• Green Onions – For a fresh contrast and a pop of color.
• Ritz Crackers (Crushed) – The buttery, crunchy topping that finishes the dish perfectly.
• Melted Butter – Mixed with the crackers to give that golden crust on top.

---

How To Make the Crack Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, shredded cheddar, and half the cooked bacon. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining bacon and green onions on top.

Step 4: Add the Crunch

In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole for a golden, crispy topping.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling.

---

Serving and Storing Crack Chicken Casserole

Crack Chicken Casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven, when the cheese is gooey and the cracker topping is crisp. Garnish with extra green onions or a light drizzle of ranch if you want to boost presentation and flavor.

Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted veggies to balance out the richness. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but also versatile as a side dish for gatherings.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover loosely with foil and bake at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

This casserole also freezes well. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe low-carb?

Simply skip the Ritz cracker topping or replace it with crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly crunch.

Can I use canned chicken instead of shredded cooked chicken?

Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch. Be sure to drain it well and shred it finely for best results.

What other cheese can I use instead of cheddar?

Mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack all melt well and bring their own twist to the flavor profile.

Is it okay to assemble this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prep the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just add the cracker topping right before baking.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. Add the cracker topping at the end and broil in the oven if you want that crispy finish.

---

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you loved this Crack Chicken Casserole, you’ll definitely want to try these hearty, comforting favorites next:

• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for a classic homestyle dish.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole if you’re craving something rich and cheesy.
• Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole for a kid-approved weeknight winner.
• Mexican White Trash Casserole for a spicy, cheesy twist.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you’re in the mood for something fancy yet fuss-free.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding jalapeños or switching up the cheese? Did your kids request seconds?

I always love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s make dinner easier and tastier together!

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?