Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole
Discover the comfort of Loaded Baked Potato and Chicken Casserole, a delicious meal that's perfect for busy nights and an even better surprise awaits!
Total time
90 min
Servings
8
Calories
652.2
Category
Dinner & Mains
This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, crispy potatoes, melted cheddar, and smoky bacon in one hearty dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it delivers all the flavors of a loaded baked potato with a protein-packed twist.
Ingredients
Makes 8 servings
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 potatoes
- 1/3 olive oil
- 1 1/2 salt
- 1 fresh ground pepper
- 1 paprika
- 2 garlic powder
- 3 cheddar cheese
- 2 bacon
- 1 green onion
Method
Preheat oven to 500 degrees.
In large bowl mix olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder and hot sauce.
Add potatoes to bowl and allow to marinate for 10 minutes.
Using a strainer and another bowl, drain the potatoes. Collect all remaining sauce in one bowl and set aside.
Coat baking dish with cooking spray.
Spread potatoes evenly in baking dish and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
Fry bacon and set aside to drain.
Using the bacon grease, brown the chicken cubes and add them to the remaining sauce. Coat the chicken cubes evenly in the sauce.
Once potatoes are done, spread the chicken on top. Bake for 12 minutes.
Crumble the bacon, grate the cheese, and chop the green onions.
Layer the cheese, bacon, and half of the green onions and bake for 3 - 5 minutes more, until the cheese is melted.
Add fresh green onions before serving.
Cook's notes
- For extra crispy potatoes, pat them dry after marinating and before baking.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the hot sauce from the marinade.
Easy swaps
- Instead of chicken breasts, use boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Instead of cheddar cheese, use mozzarella or Monterey Jack
- Instead of bacon, use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon
- Instead of olive oil, use avocado oil or vegetable oil
Frequently asked
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well, but they may cook faster, so check for doneness at around 35 minutes.
Do I have to use hot sauce?
No, the hot sauce is optional. You can omit it or replace it with a pinch of cayenne for a milder kick.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the dish up to the baking step, then refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the final bake time.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
