Looking for a crowd-pleasing, comforting meal that's both hearty and delicious? This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole is the answer! Packed with tender chunks of chicken, crispy potatoes, gooey cheese, and topped with bacon, this casserole is like a loaded baked potato turned into a full meal. It's perfect for feeding a hungry family or bringing to a potluck. Plus, it's simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying! Read on to learn how to make this flavorful dish from start to finish.
What is a Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole?
A Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole is a baked dish that combines bite-sized pieces of chicken breast and potatoes, layered with cheese, bacon, and a blend of seasonings. The "loaded" aspect comes from the toppings typically found on loaded baked potatoes, such as sour cream, cheese, and green onions. This casserole brings all those flavors together in one creamy, cheesy, and savory dish. It’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for some comfort food.
Ingredients List for Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering casserole:
For the Casserole:
- Chicken Breasts – 2 large chicken breasts, cubed (about 1 lb), providing lean protein.
- Potatoes – 4-5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes.
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoon to coat the potatoes and chicken.
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon for a smoky flavor and vibrant color.
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon to add depth and flavor.
- Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon for additional flavoring.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the potatoes and chicken.
For the Toppings:
- Bacon – 6 slices, cooked and crumbled, for that salty, crispy finish.
- Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference).
- Sour Cream – 1 cup to add a creamy tang to the casserole.
- Green Onions – ¼ cup chopped, for garnish and a fresh burst of flavor.
Optional Extras:
- Ranch Dressing – ½ cup if you want a zesty, ranch flavor to enhance the dish.
- Hot Sauce – Add a dash or two for some heat.
- Chives – Fresh chives can be used in place of green onions for a milder flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap out russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutrient-packed version.
- Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and bacon, and add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a veggie-loaded casserole.
- Add Veggies: Enhance the dish with vegetables like roasted broccoli, zucchini, or even corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the process of making this delicious casserole. It’s easy and straightforward, with just a few key steps.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place the diced potatoes in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the potatoes. Add the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly in the seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they begin to get crispy around the edges.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- While the potatoes are baking, cube the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same mixing bowl, toss the chicken with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and additional paprika for flavor.
- After the potatoes have started to crisp up, remove the baking dish from the oven and layer the seasoned chicken on top of the partially cooked potatoes.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken and Potatoes
- Place the casserole back in the oven and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the potatoes are golden and crispy.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bacon
- Once the chicken and potatoes are fully cooked, remove the casserole from the oven.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Add the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Add Final Toppings
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Add dollops of sour cream over the top, and sprinkle with chopped green onions (or chives) for a fresh and vibrant finish.
How to Cook Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare and Season the Potatoes: The key to perfect roasted potatoes is cutting them into uniform pieces and seasoning them generously.
- Bake in Layers: By pre-baking the potatoes, you ensure they get crispy and golden before adding the chicken. This helps keep the textures just right.
- Cheese Melting Time: Adding cheese toward the end of baking ensures it melts perfectly without becoming too oily.
- Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon separately and crumble it over the top for the perfect crispy bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undercooking the Potatoes: Make sure to bake the potatoes long enough to develop a crispy exterior before adding the chicken.
- Dry Chicken: Don’t overcook the chicken. Keep an eye on the internal temperature and remove the casserole as soon as the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Potatoes and chicken both need a generous amount of seasoning to bring out their flavors. Taste as you go!
Serving and Presentation Tips
For a delicious and visually appealing presentation, serve the Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole family-style in the baking dish. Set it on the table with a large spoon so everyone can help themselves. Pair the casserole with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve with crusty bread to soak up any cheesy, bacony goodness!
How to Serve Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole
- Family-Style: Place the casserole dish directly on the table for an inviting, casual meal where everyone can dig in.
- Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, scoop individual portions onto plates and top each serving with a little extra sour cream, green onions, and bacon crumbles.
Presentation Ideas for Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of green color.
- Extra Bacon: Reserve some bacon crumbles to sprinkle on top right before serving for extra crispiness.
- Serve with Condiments: Offer small bowls of additional sour cream, shredded cheese, or hot sauce for guests to customize their serving.
Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time (before adding the cheese and bacon) and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake as directed, then add the cheese and bacon in the final step.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Double the Recipe: This casserole can easily be doubled for larger groups. Use a bigger baking dish or two 9x13-inch dishes to accommodate the increased quantity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Yes, if you have leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, you can add it during the final 10 minutes of baking to warm it through.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- You can freeze the casserole before adding the sour cream and cheese. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed, adding the cheese and bacon at the end.
- What other toppings can I use?
- You can add jalapeños for spice, swap cheddar for mozzarella, or use ranch dressing for extra flavor.
- Can I make this casserole with sweet potatoes?
- Yes! Sweet potatoes work well and will give the dish a slightly sweeter flavor.
- How do I prevent the casserole from getting too greasy?
- Drain the bacon well after cooking, and use lean chicken breasts to reduce excess fat.
Conclusion
This Loaded Chicken and Potato Casserole is a perfect dish for anyone who loves the flavors of a loaded baked potato combined with juicy chicken and melted cheese. It’s a versatile, customizable, and comforting recipe that’s easy to make and sure to be a hit with everyone at the
table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or bringing a dish to a gathering, this casserole delivers big on flavor and is guaranteed to satisfy. So grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delicious, cheesy, and bacon-filled meal!
PrintLoaded Chicken And Potato Casserole Recipe
This loaded chicken and potato casserole recipe is the perfect comfort food, packed with seasoned chicken, crispy potatoes, cheese, and bacon. This family-friendly dish is easy to make and great for weeknight dinners or potlucks. It's a satisfying meal that combines the best flavors into one cheesy, baked casserole. Keywords: loaded chicken casserole, potato casserole, comfort food, cheesy chicken and potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
- ½ cup ranch dressing (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly in the baking dish.
- Bake the potatoes for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy.
- While the potatoes are baking, season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and add the chicken pieces on top. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the dish from the oven, top with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon, then return to the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with ranch dressing if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier casserole, add a cup of sour cream or cream cheese before adding the cheese and bacon topping.
- You can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for a more balanced dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
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