Description
A cozy, filling casserole with BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, chicken, and lots of cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (Rotisserie chicken is easiest.)
- 8 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or shells) (Cook until just barely tender.)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (Use your favorite flavor.)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (Pick a thick variety for best results.)
- 2 cups cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, and Colby Jack) (About two-thirds mixed in and the rest for topping.)
Optional Extras
- 1 cup crumbled bacon (For topping or mixing in.)
- 1 cup corn (Adds sweetness and fun.)
- 1 cup green chiles (Adds mild heat.)
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers or onions (Adds bite and color.)
Seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper (Start light as sauces may already contain salt.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375 F.
- Cook pasta in salted water until just barely tender, then drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and a little black pepper.
- Add cooked chicken and drained pasta, then mix until everything is coated.
- Stir in about two thirds of the cheese.
- Pour into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with the rest of the cheese.
Baking
- Bake until hot and bubbly, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Broil for 1 to 2 minutes if you want a more golden top, then rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
This casserole is flexible; feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients. Leftovers taste even better the next day and can be reheated easily.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American