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Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole: A Hearty Comfort Food Delight

Introduction

Comfort food at its finest, this Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and rich toppings for a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this casserole packs flavor and heartiness into every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 470 grams boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 medium red potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
  • â…“ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

  • 2 cups fiesta blend cheese (or cheese of your choice)
  • 1 cup diced green onions
  • 1 cup crumbled bacon (approximately ½ pound)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and achieves a perfect golden crust.
  1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
  • Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
  1. Mix the Marinade:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and hot sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.
  1. Coat the Chicken and Potatoes:
  • Add the cubed chicken and diced potatoes to the bowl with the marinade. Stir gently to coat all the pieces thoroughly with the flavorful mixture.
  1. Transfer to Baking Dish:
  • Carefully scoop the coated chicken and potatoes into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly for uniform cooking.
  1. Bake the Casserole:
  • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. Every 20 minutes, stir the mixture gently to ensure even browning and crispiness.
  1. Cook the Bacon:
  • While the casserole is baking, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
  1. Prepare for Topping:
  • Once the chicken and potatoes are baked and crispy, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Check that the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  1. Add the Toppings:
  • Sprinkle the fiesta blend cheese evenly over the baked chicken and potatoes. Follow with the crumbled bacon and diced green onions.
  1. Melt the Cheese:
    • Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This will create a deliciously gooey topping.
  2. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once the cheese is melted, remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect served warm as a standalone meal or alongside a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 8)

  • Calories: 480
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Weight Watchers Points: 10 points per serving

Tips for Success

  • Choosing Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
  • Potato Variety: Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture, but feel free to substitute with Yukon gold or russet potatoes if desired.
  • Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that brings family and friends together. The layers of flavor—from the marinated chicken and crispy potatoes to the gooey cheese and savory bacon—create a satisfying dish that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

Conclusion

Enjoy the simplicity and heartiness of this loaded casserole. With its easy preparation and delicious flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Dive in and experience the joy of home-cooked comfort food!