Ingredients
For the Casserole:
2 cups shredded chicken breast (about 3 small chicken breasts)
2 tbsp butter
1 pack ranch seasoning mix, or homemade ranch mix
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 cups fresh broccoli (or 10.8 oz steam bag)
2/3 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup crumbled bacon
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
For the Topping:
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Cook chicken in a slow cooker on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours with a bit of chicken broth and salt/pepper. Shred once cooked.
- Alternatively, use rotisserie chicken, stovetop-boiled chicken, or Instant Pot for faster cooking.
- Preheat the Oven
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- In an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, melt butter over low heat.
- Add ranch seasoning, cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, 1/4 cup bacon, and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar.
- Whisk and simmer on low for 5 minutes until creamy.
- Steam Broccoli
- Steam fresh broccoli or follow directions on a steam bag until slightly tender.
- Combine and Bake
- Stir shredded chicken and steamed broccoli into the sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining 2 cups cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup bacon on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Broil for a Golden Top
- Move skillet to top oven rack and broil 1-3 minutes until cheese is golden and bacon is crispy.
- Serve
- Let cool for a few minutes, then serve hot.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake within 1-2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before baking.
- Cheese Options: Use your favorite cheese combination for variety.
- Vegetable Substitutes: Swap broccoli for cauliflower, spinach, Brussels sprouts, or other low-carb veggies.
- Spice Options: Add crushed red pepper, jalapeños, smoked paprika, or cayenne for heat and depth.
- Bacon Alternatives: Turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option.
- Leftovers: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Sauce Adjustment: Add extra chicken broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 3 hrs 55 min