Save Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Ranch Chicken Potato Bake. This hearty casserole brings together layers of thinly sliced potatoes and tender chicken, all enveloped in a rich, ranch-seasoned cream sauce and baked until perfectly golden and bubbling.
Save The magic of this dish lies in the balance of textures—from the soft, tender Yukon Gold potatoes to the succulent chicken cubes—all topped with a bubbly, melted blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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)
- 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. Allowing the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking is crucial as it helps the cream sauce thicken and set.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can customize this bake by adding cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers for extra flavor. If you are short on time, substitute the raw chicken breasts with pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. For a gluten-free version, ensure your ranch seasoning mix is certified gluten-free.
Serviervorschläge
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to add a fresh contrast. For a complete dining experience, serve it alongside a glass of chilled Chardonnay.
Save Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this Creamy Ranch Chicken Potato Bake is a reliable and delicious American classic that never fails to please.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I prepare this bake ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking cold from the refrigerator.
- → What potatoes work best for this dish?
Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape beautifully while becoming tender. Russets work too but may break down slightly more, creating a creamier texture.
- → 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 meat is already cooked.
- → How do I know when the potatoes are done?
Insert a paring knife through the center of the casserole. If it slides through the potatoes with no resistance, they're tender and ready for the cheese topping.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Simply use a certified gluten-free ranch seasoning mix. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy comfort food adaptation.
- → What sides 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, cheesy flavors nicely.