Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole

The Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and savory toppings into a delightful one-pan meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this casserole brings comfort food to a new level. With a few adjustments, we can make this recipe friendly for Weight Watchers without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
  • 8 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/3 cup olive oil (or use a cooking spray for fewer points)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 6 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust for spice preference)

For the Toppings:

  • 2 cups reduced-fat shredded cheese (such as cheddar or a cheese blend)
  • 1 cup crumbled turkey bacon or a lower-fat bacon alternative
  • 1 cup diced green onions (scallions)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 500°F (260°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy texture for the potatoes while ensuring the chicken cooks quickly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. This marinade will infuse the chicken and potatoes with robust flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and cube the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. Add the cubed potatoes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to coat the potatoes evenly, ensuring every piece is well-seasoned.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial, especially when dealing with potatoes, as they can sometimes stick to the pan during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Potatoes

Transfer the marinated potatoes into the prepared baking dish, reserving any excess marinade in the bowl. Spread the potatoes evenly across the dish. Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and become golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Chicken

While the potatoes are baking, cube the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Once the potatoes have been baking for 30 minutes, add the uncooked chicken to the bowl with the remaining marinade. Toss to coat the chicken in the flavorful sauce.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Potatoes

After the potatoes have cooked for 45 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven. Carefully add the marinated chicken on top of the cooked potatoes, spreading it evenly.

Step 8: Prepare the Toppings

In a separate bowl, combine the reduced-fat shredded cheese, crumbled turkey bacon, and diced green onions. Mix well to combine these toppings, ensuring they are ready to be added on top of the chicken.

Step 9: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the cheese, bacon, and green onion mixture evenly over the chicken layer. This will create a deliciously cheesy and savory topping that complements the rest of the dish perfectly.

Step 10: Bake the Casserole

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Step 11: Let It Cool

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time will help the casserole set and make it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own, showcasing its rich flavors and textures.

Nutrition Information

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: Approximately 360 calories
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Weight Watchers Points: 9 points (depending on specific ingredients used)

Tips for Success

  1. Choosing the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for the best texture in your casserole. These potatoes will become fluffy and delicious as they cook.
  2. Lowering Points: To further reduce the points, consider using non-stick cooking spray instead of olive oil, reducing the amount of cheese, or using a cheese substitute.
  3. Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  4. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
  5. Customizing Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can provide additional flavor depth.

Additional Serving Ideas

This casserole is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. Consider serving it with a side of sour cream or a light ranch dressing for dipping. You could also add a side of grilled vegetables for a fresh contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines familiar flavors with a healthy twist. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for any occasion. With the added benefits of being Weight Watchers-friendly, you can enjoy this comfort food without the guilt. Whether for dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy the layers of flavor and the wholesome goodness in every bite!