There’s something about a good casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate, especially when it’s packed with vibrant veggies, tender chicken, and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. Confetti Chicken Casserole with Bacon is one of those dishes that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a little cheer to your dinner table. The colorful mix of corn, peas, and bell peppers gives the dish its playful “confetti” name, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a recipe that sneaks in some extra veggies for the kids without them even noticing?
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, and the combination of flavors—savory chicken, smoky bacon, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping—makes it a dish that everyone in the family will love. Pair it with a fresh green salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal, or go all out with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
For a dish that serves 6, you’ll need:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded: A great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a deliciously smoky, savory flavor.
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed: Brings a touch of sweetness and color.
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed: Adds a pop of green and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: For a bright, slightly sweet crunch.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds color and a mild, peppery flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create a creamy, cheesy layer.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds richness and a slight tang to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and adds depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: The crunchy topping that adds texture and a buttery flavor.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps bind the cracker topping and adds a golden finish.
Ingredient Notes & Tips
- Chicken Options: If you don’t have leftover chicken, a rotisserie chicken from the store works perfectly and saves time. You can also use turkey if you prefer.
- Veggie Variations: Not a fan of bell peppers? Swap them out for broccoli, zucchini, or any other veggies your family loves. You could even add a can of well-drained diced tomatoes for a bit more color and flavor.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterrey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
- Lighter Option: For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon and reduced-fat cheese and sour cream. You’ll still get all the great flavors with a bit less richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Bringing It All Together
Let’s walk through the process of making this delicious, comforting casserole:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mix
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked bacon, corn, peas, diced red and green bell peppers, and shredded cheddar cheese. This is the heart of your casserole, packed with flavor and color.
- Add the creamy base: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined, ensuring the chicken and veggies are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the chicken and veggie mixture evenly across the dish. This ensures every bite is filled with a mix of textures and flavors.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are well coated with the butter, forming a crumbly mixture.
- Sprinkle over the casserole: Evenly distribute the cracker topping over the casserole. This will bake up into a deliciously crunchy, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. The kitchen will start to smell amazing, signaling that dinner is almost ready!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Cool slightly before serving: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to dish out.
- Serve: Plate up the casserole alongside your favorite sides and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings
This Confetti Chicken Casserole with Bacon is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to round out your meal:
