Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bite? Look no further than this Loaded Potato and Chicken Casserole! This mouthwatering recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With tender shredded chicken, creamy potatoes, crispy bacon bits, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, taking just an hour from start to finish! Get ready to dive into a recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and dice the potatoes into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, diced potatoes, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently but thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. The bacon bits will add additional saltiness, so be conservative with initial seasoning.
- Transfer the chicken and potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to ensure uniform cooking.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a complete cheese coverage.
- Distribute bacon bits evenly across the cheese layer for maximum flavor distribution.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the casserole to set and cool slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions just before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
- Serve hot, portioning out approximately 1 cup per serving, and enjoy your loaded potato and chicken casserole.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can cook and shred the chicken a day in advance. This will make assembly a breeze when you're ready to bake the casserole.
- Uniform Potato Cuts: Make sure to dice your potatoes into uniform 1/2 inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and provide a consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick!
- Bacon Alternatives: If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using turkey bacon or even omitting the bacon altogether. You can still achieve great flavor by adding a dash of smoked paprika.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Allowing the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes helps it set, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish for Freshness: Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor with a hint of freshness.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 339kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 80mg
