Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole
Almost every child who leaves home longs for their mother’s kitchen, especially if their mother loves to cook. This longing intensifies when recalling those simple, comforting dishes that she used to make with effortless grace. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that brings back those cherished memories: the Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole. This dish is one of those easy, no-fuss meals that doesn’t even seem to need a recipe. Yet, it’s filled with flavors that remind me of home and the love my mother shared through her cooking.
Although I often prepare this casserole myself, it never quite matches the taste I remember from my childhood. When that craving hits, I’m thankful to visit my mom, who once again transports me back to those cozy family dinners. There’s something special about a Sunday dinner, surrounded by loved ones, enjoying a meal that is as comforting as it is delicious.
Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is the perfect comfort food. It’s hearty, filled with savory flavors, and incredibly easy to make. You’ll love how the tender chicken and crispy potatoes are smothered in cheese, bacon, and green onions. It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Cooking spray
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast
- 8 potatoes
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh ground pepper
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 6 tbsp hot sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheese (for topping)
- 1 cup crumbled bacon (for topping)
- 1 cup diced green onion (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and hot sauce.
- Cube the potatoes and add them to the bowl, tossing to coat them thoroughly.
- Coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and add the potatoes, reserving excess sauce in the bowl.
- Bake the potatoes for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- While the potatoes bake, cube the chicken and add it to the bowl with the leftover sauce, tossing to coat.
- In a separate smaller bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced green onion.
- Once the potatoes are done, remove the dish from the oven and add the uncooked marinated chicken over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle the cheese, bacon, and green onion mixture evenly on top of the chicken.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to stir the potatoes occasionally while baking to achieve an even crispness.
- Cut the chicken and potatoes into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice preference.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a different twist, try adding some broccoli florets or bell peppers for extra vegetables. You can also swap out the chicken for turkey or even a vegetarian protein like tofu or chickpeas.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This casserole is a good source of protein and provides a hearty portion of carbs from the potatoes. It’s indulgent with cheese and bacon, so enjoy it as a satisfying treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely with this dish to balance the richness.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
Conclusion
This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is not only a tribute to the comforting meals of my childhood but also a delightful addition to any dinner table. I invite you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Let me know how it turns out and feel free to share your variations and tips!