Save Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Ranch Chicken Potato Bake. This American-style casserole layers tender, thinly sliced potatoes with juicy pieces of chicken, all smothered in a savory, herb-filled ranch cream sauce. Baked until the cheese is bubbling and golden, it is a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Save The secret to this dish lies in the ranch-seasoned cream sauce, which thickens as it bakes, enveloping the potatoes and chicken in a velvety coating. It is a hearty main dish that is both effortless and impressive.
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 the best results, use a mandoline to achieve evenly sliced potatoes, which ensures they cook at the same rate. This helps prevent any crunchy spots in your finished casserole.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Add cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers for an extra smoky flavor boost. If you are in a hurry, you can substitute the raw chicken cubes with shredded rotisserie chicken to speed up the preparation process.
Serviervorschläge
This rich and creamy bake pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad to cut through the decadence. Complete your meal with a chilled glass of Chardonnay for a sophisticated touch.
Save Whether you are hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting meal on a cold evening, this Creamy Ranch Chicken Potato Bake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Cooking Guide
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold when it goes into the oven.
- → What potatoes work best for this bake?
Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well while becoming tender. Russets also work and create a creamier texture as they break down slightly. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes, which won't soften as much.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw?
Absolutely. Use about 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken and reduce the initial covered baking time to 30-35 minutes since the chicken is already cooked.
- → How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
Insert a knife or fork into the center of the casserole—it should slide through the potato layers with no resistance. The sauce should be bubbling thickly around the edges.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute the heavy cream and milk with full-fat canned coconut milk and use dairy-free shredded cheese. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
- → What side dishes pair well with this bake?
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli also complement the creamy, savory flavors nicely.