Loaded Chicken And Potato Casserole Recipe

There’s nothing more comforting than the sight of a golden, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven. This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole takes comfort food to the next level, combining tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and gooey cheese with savory bacon and a drizzle of ranch dressing. It’s a one-dish wonder that will leave everyone at the table craving seconds!

I first created this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty but easy to throw together. With ingredients that were already in my kitchen, it quickly became a family favorite. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why You'll Love This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new go-to dinner recipe. This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole is the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and convenience.

• Packed with Flavor: Juicy chunks of chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, smoky bacon, and melty cheese come together with a zesty ranch topping that takes every bite to another level.
• Super Simple to Make: With minimal prep and no complicated steps, this recipe is approachable even on the busiest weeknights. Just assemble, bake, and enjoy!
• A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding a picky family or hosting a casual dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs (more on that later).

From start to finish, this casserole is a recipe you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. Ready to get started?

Ingredients Notes

This casserole is made with simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient shines.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. Their mild flavor soaks up the seasoning beautifully, creating tender, juicy bites.
• Russet Potatoes: These hearty potatoes hold their shape during baking and crisp up perfectly on the edges. Yukon Golds are a great alternative if you prefer a creamier texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Feel free to use a cheese blend if that’s what you have on hand.
• Bacon: The smoky, crispy crunch of bacon is an absolute must! It pairs beautifully with the creamy and cheesy components.
• Ranch Dressing: The secret to tying all the flavors together. Use your favorite brand, or try a homemade version for an extra special touch.
• Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder add just the right amount of seasoning to enhance every bite.

Special Equipment:

While you don’t need anything fancy, a large baking dish (9x13 is perfect) and a mixing bowl are essential for this recipe.

How to Make This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole

Making this casserole is as easy as tossing everything together and letting the oven work its magic. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dice the chicken breasts and russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking. In a large mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spread them in an even layer on a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain it on a paper towel-lined plate and crumble it into pieces. Set aside.
3. Add the Chicken: After the potatoes have partially cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Add the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the potatoes and return the dish to the oven for another 20 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
4. Layer the Toppings: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and bacon crumbles over the chicken and potatoes. Drizzle with ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor. Place the dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, then serve hot. Pair it with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage Options

This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole is just as good the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits!
• Freezing: Want to prep ahead? This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the Protein: Try using rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even crumbled sausage for a new twist on the classic.
• Add Veggies: Toss in chopped broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Try a Different Cheese: Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese will add a unique flavor to the dish.
• Make it Spicy: Sprinkle on red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for a kick of heat.
• Go Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your ranch dressing and seasonings are GF-certified.

Experiment with what you have on hand, and you’ll never get bored of this versatile dish.

There you have it – a Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making it ahead for busy weeknights, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it today and let me know what you think!

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