Chicken Bacon Ranch Potatoes combine tender chicken, crispy bacon, and flavorful ranch seasoning with perfectly roasted potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. This dish is ideal for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a comforting weeknight meal. With its blend of savory flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your potatoes will roast perfectly, with a crispy exterior and tender interior.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a large bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Roast the Potatoes:
- Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Stir them halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the potatoes are roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the ranch seasoning mix.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Once the potatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and set them aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and the remaining ranch seasoning mix.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread the roasted potatoes evenly in a baking dish. Top with the chicken and bacon mixture, and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake to Melt Cheese:
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
- Bacon: For a crispy texture, cook the bacon until it’s extra crispy before crumbling. This adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are cut into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a different type of potato, red or Yukon gold potatoes work well too.
- Chicken: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of ranch dressing or seasoning before cooking.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a variation in flavor.
- Vegetables: Add extra vegetables to the dish if you like. Bell peppers, onions, or even broccoli can be mixed in with the potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken and bacon mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the dish right before baking for a quicker meal prep.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Potatoes with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It’s also great on its own for a comforting, hearty dinner.
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Potatoes recipe is a delicious combination of flavors that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or a family. With its creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy the perfect blend of savory and satisfying flavors with this comforting recipe!