Save A comforting casserole featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes and tender chicken, enveloped in a rich, ranch-seasoned cream sauce and baked until golden and bubbling. This Creamy Ranch Chicken Potato Bake is the ultimate American comfort food, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Save This dish transforms humble ingredients into a spectacular meal. By layering the potatoes and chicken, every bite is infused with the garlic and onion notes of the ranch sauce, while the mozzarella and cheddar topping provides that essential bubbly finish.
Ingredients
- Potatoes and Chicken
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Ranch Cream Sauce
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tbsp homemade ranch mix)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Cheese Topping
- 1.5 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
- Step 2
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, ranch seasoning, garlic, onion powder, paprika, and thyme until smooth.
- Step 3
- Arrange half the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 4
- Scatter half of the chicken cubes over the potatoes. Pour half of the ranch cream sauce evenly over the layer.
- Step 5
- Repeat with remaining potatoes and chicken, then pour the rest of the sauce over the top.
- Step 6
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Step 7
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the casserole, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the potatoes are tender.
- Step 8
- Let rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with chives or parsley and serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For even cooking, use a mandoline to slice your potatoes to a consistent thickness. Ensure you grease the baking dish well to prevent the cheese and potatoes from sticking to the edges during the long baking process.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers. If you are in a hurry, you can substitute the raw chicken cubes with rotisserie chicken for a faster preparation time.
Serviervorschläge
Balance the richness of this bake by pairing it with a crisp green salad. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of Chardonnay, which complements the creamy ranch and cheese flavors perfectly.
Save Enjoy this warm and satisfying meal that brings together classic American flavors in one pan. It's a reliable recipe that the whole family will ask for again and again!
Recipe Help
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold.
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well during baking and have a naturally creamy texture. Russet potatoes also work but may become slightly softer. Red potatoes can be used if you prefer a firmer texture.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and add extra richness and moisture. Just cube them the same way you would breasts. The cooking time remains the same.
- → How do I know when the potatoes are done?
Insert a paring knife or fork into the center of the casserole. If it slides through the potatoes with no resistance, they're tender and ready. The cheese should also be melted and lightly golden on top.
- → Can I freeze this casserole?
You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Alternatively, freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick meals later.
- → What can I serve with this bake?
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans also complement the dish nicely. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the extra cream sauce.