Description
Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole
Get ready for a classic comfort food casserole that will win over your entire family! This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole is packed with seasoned potatoes, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked together to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!
5 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
½ tbsp paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked, chopped bacon
2 green onions, sliced thin
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Toss potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil and spread in dish. Bake 40 mins.
3. Mix remaining oil with paprika, garlic, salt, pepper; coat chicken.
4. Add chicken to potatoes, bake 15 mins.
5. Top with cheese, bacon, green onions, bake 5 mins.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 380 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Peel and cut the potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
2. Roast the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer in the prepared dish. Bake for 40 minutes, or until they are just beginning to become tender and golden at the edges.
3. Season the Chicken: While the potatoes bake, cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss thoroughly to coat.
4. Combine & Bake: After the initial 40 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Scatter the seasoned chicken pieces evenly over and around the potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Add Toppings & Melt: Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon evenly over the top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, just until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish & Serve: Carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own. For a lighter touch, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or glazed carrots also make excellent side dishes. For a true comfort-food feast, serve with warm, crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls to soak up any delicious bits.
How-to Summary
This casserole is built in three simple stages: roast the potatoes, add and cook the seasoned chicken, then top with cheese and bacon to melt. The key is ensuring the potatoes get a head start so everything finishes cooking perfectly together. It’s a versatile one-dish wonder perfect for busy nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato? Yes. Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent substitute and do not require peeling. For a quicker option, use frozen diced potatoes (thawed and patted dry).
How can I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? You can prepare the components ahead. Chop the potatoes and chicken, store them separately in the fridge, and mix the seasoning oil. Assemble and bake just before dinner for the best texture.
What can I use instead of bacon? For a different flavor, try diced ham or pancetta. For a vegetarian twist, omit the bacon and chicken, add more veggies like bell peppers, and use a plant-based protein.
Is it possible to make this dish spicier? Absolutely. Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder to the chicken seasoning mix, or top with sliced jalapeños along with the cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uneven Potato Pieces: Cutting potatoes into different sizes leads to some being undercooked while others are mushy. Aim for uniform cubes.
- Skipping the Potato Pre-bake: Adding the chicken at the same time as the raw potatoes will result in overcooked chicken and hard potatoes. The staged baking is crucial.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure the chicken and potatoes are in a single layer. Crowding will steam them instead of allowing them to roast and brown properly.
- Using Pre-shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly. For best results, shred a block of cheese yourself.
Conclusion
This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole is the epitome of reliable, crowd-pleasing comfort food. With its simple preparation, customizable ingredients, and all-in-one-pan convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again. The combination of savory chicken, tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese is guaranteed to satisfy and leave everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try for your next family dinner—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation.