Description
This Cheesy BBQ Bacon Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a smoky-sweet BBQ sauce, all topped with a gooey layer of melted cheese. Packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game-day gatherings. With its creamy texture, tangy BBQ kick, and crispy bacon crunch, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Serve it with a side of cornbread, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional, for added protein)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or crackers (for topping)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra crumbled bacon
- Optional: Green onions, sliced
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the crumbled bacon, BBQ sauce, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, ½ cup of cheddar cheese, diced onion, corn, and black beans (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese (if using) over the top.
- Sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips or crackers evenly over the cheese layer for a crispy topping.
4. Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra crumbled bacon, and optional green onions for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve hot with a side of cornbread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete, comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 30 Minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
