Go Back
Gather the following ingredients to make the Pickle Ranch Chicken and Rice Bake: - 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 1 cup dill pickle slices - ½ cup pickle juice - 1 packet ranch seasoning mix - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - ½ cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup low sodium chicken broth - 1 cup frozen peas (optional) - Salt and pepper, to taste - Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the dish's unique flavor. The combination of dill pickles and ranch seasoning adds a punch that makes this meal stand out. Using low sodium chicken broth helps keep the salt levels in check, while the cream cheese adds a lovely creaminess to the casserole. Feel free to customize by choosing different types of rice or adding veggies like bell peppers. If you want a bit of crunch, consider topping the dish with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking. For the full recipe, check out the details provided above. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare and measure all ingredients. This step helps you stay organized. - In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, pickles, ranch seasoning, and pickle juice. - Mix well until everything is coated. Next, incorporate cream cheese and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and creamy. If you want, you can add frozen peas at this stage. - Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula. - Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top, covering the entire surface. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and the cheese should be bubbly and golden. - Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors blend. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful dish! To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. This keeps your chicken safe and juicy. Cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly throughout the dish. Using low sodium chicken broth is key for flavor control. It lets you manage the saltiness of the dish. Balance the salt in the ranch seasoning and cheese with a low sodium broth. This way, you can enjoy a rich taste without it being too salty. The best side dishes for this casserole include a crisp green salad or roasted veggies. These add freshness and color to your meal. You could also serve it with crusty bread for a heartier option. For a more polished look, serve individual portions on plates. Garnish each serving with extra pickle slices and a sprig of fresh dill or parsley. This makes your dish pop with color and adds a burst of flavor. Enjoy the comforting blend of chicken, rice, and pickles with a beautiful presentation! {{image_4}} You can change up the flavors in your Pickle Ranch Chicken and Rice Bake. One easy way is to use different cheeses. Try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for some heat. Each cheese brings its own flair to the dish. Adding vegetables is another great option. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while corn brings a pop of color and sweetness. You can toss in your favorite veggies to make it even more fun and healthy. If you need gluten-free options, look for a gluten-free ranch seasoning. Many brands offer this, so check the labels. It allows you to enjoy the same great taste without gluten. For those on a low-carb diet, swap rice for cauliflower rice. This change keeps your dish light and fresh. It also adds more nutrients. You still get the delicious mix of flavors while keeping it low-carb. For the full recipe, check out Dill-Infused Ranch Chicken and Rice Casserole. After you enjoy the pickle ranch chicken and rice bake, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place the casserole in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about three to four days. When reheating, use the oven for best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm throughout. You can also use the microwave, but it may dry out the dish. For long-term storage, you can freeze the casserole. If it is unbaked, wrap it well with plastic wrap and then foil. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. If you have baked it, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly the same way. The shelf life for a baked dish in the freezer is also about three months. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Bake it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Can I use different types of chicken? Yes, you can use thighs or even rotisserie chicken. Thighs stay moist, which is great for flavor. Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a nice touch. Just shred it before mixing. How to make it creamier or zestier? To make it creamier, add more cream cheese or sour cream. For a zestier flavor, mix in extra dill pickle juice or some lemon zest. You can also try adding a bit of hot sauce for a kick! How long can the casserole sit out? It should not sit out for more than two hours. After that, it may not be safe to eat. Cover it well and store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just mix all the ingredients and cover the dish. Store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake it, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. What can I use instead of cream cheese? You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Cottage cheese also works well. Both will keep the dish creamy and delicious. Alternatives for ranch seasoning mix? If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make your own. Combine dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will give you a similar flavor profile. This dish combines simple ingredients for a tasty meal. We started with cooked rice and diced chicken, adding dill pickles and ranch for flavor. We mixed it with cream cheese and topped it with cheese before baking. Remember, you can adjust ingredients to suit your taste. Store any leftovers properly for later. Enjoy your casserole and get creative with variations. This dish is easy to make and even easier to enjoy with family and friends.

Pickle Ranch Chicken and Rice Bake

Looking for a delicious and unique dinner idea? Try this Dill-Infused Ranch Chicken and Rice Casserole! With savory chicken, creamy cheese, and tangy dill pickles, this dish is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for busy weeknights, it only takes 50 minutes from prep to plate. Click through to explore the full recipe and discover how to create this comforting meal that they’ll keep asking for!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked rice (your choice of white or brown)

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup dill pickle slices (plus an additional ½ cup of pickle juice for flavor)

1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)

1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and nutrition)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach the right temperature for baking.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, cooked rice, dill pickle slices, ranch seasoning mix, and pickle juice. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly coated in the ranch seasoning.

      Incorporate the softened cream cheese and chicken broth into the mixture. If you’re adding frozen peas, gently fold them in at this stage. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

        Carefully transfer the entire mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, using a spatula to spread it out into an even layer.

          Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring that it covers the entire surface for a cheesy finish.

            Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, the cheese is melted, bubbly, and exhibits a lovely golden hue.

              Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.

                Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped dill or parsley for a vibrant finish that complements the dish beautifully.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve straight from the baking dish for a homey feel, or plate individual servings for a more polished presentation. For an added visual and flavorful touch, garnish with extra pickle slices around the edges and a sprig of fresh dill or parsley atop each portion. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the comfort of this hearty dish!