Loaded Chicken & Potatoes

Are you craving a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than our Loaded Chicken & Potatoes recipe! This hearty dish combines tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and a medley of savory toppings to create a meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delicious dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed (1″)
• 6-8 medium skin-on red potatoes, cut into 1/2″ cubes
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)

Topping:

• 2 cups fiesta blend cheese
• 1 cup crumbled bacon
• 1 cup diced green onion

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts and diced potatoes.
   • Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and potatoes, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and hot sauce.
   • Toss everything together until the chicken and potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Assemble the Dish:
   • Transfer the seasoned chicken and potatoes to the prepared baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer.
4. Bake to Perfection:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
5. Add the Toppings:
   • Once the chicken and potatoes are cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven.
   • Sprinkle the fiesta blend cheese over the top of the chicken and potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon and diced green onion.
6. Return to the Oven:
   • Place the baking dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once the cheese is melted and the toppings are heated through, remove the dish from the oven.
   • Serve the loaded chicken and potatoes hot, garnished with additional green onion if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version of this dish, you can omit the chicken and double the amount of potatoes. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your personal preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of hot sauce or omit it altogether.
• Custom Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! Try adding diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or avocado slices for extra flavor and freshness.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative. Follow the same instructions for seasoning and baking.

Low-Carb Version:

• Use cauliflower instead of potatoes, and opt for turkey bacon or turkey sausage instead of traditional bacon to reduce the carb content further.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, bone-in chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for this recipe. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply assemble the dish as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers for later. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and contents, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends or varieties to customize the flavor of your loaded chicken and potatoes. Cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella would all work well in this recipe.

With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, gooey cheese, and savory toppings, our Loaded Chicken & Potatoes recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, with its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s a convenient option for busy weeknights. Give it a try and prepare to indulge in a mouthwatering meal that’s loaded with flavor!