Irresistible Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole Recipe
Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and flavorful potatoes, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this casserole is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh ground pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 6 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 cups grated cheese
- 1 cup crumbled bacon
- 1 cup diced green onion
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and hot sauce.
- Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes.
- Spread the chicken mixture over the potatoes.
- Layer the remaining potatoes over the chicken.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle grated cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced green onion over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook’s Note: For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
FAQs:
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses for this casserole. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack would all work well.
Q: Can I make this casserole spicy? A: Yes, you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce to suit your taste.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? A: Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor profile. Just be aware that sweet potatoes may cook faster than regular potatoes, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
Additional Tips:
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked bacon and pre-shredded cheese.
- Feel free to add extra toppings such as sour cream, chopped chives, or salsa before serving for added flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 540
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
Conclusion: Indulge in the rich flavors and comforting textures of our Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole. With its simple preparation and delicious results, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and flavorful potatoes in every bite.
