Introduction

When you’re craving the kind of hearty, comforting meal that fills the house with irresistible aromas and brings everyone to the table fast, nothing satisfies quite like a Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole. This dish takes everything you love about a classic loaded baked potato—creamy melted cheese, smoky beef bacon, buttery potatoes, tangy sour cream—and combines it with tender, savory chicken to create a complete meal baked into one bubbling, golden casserole.

It’s the type of recipe families keep forever because it’s easy, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy Sunday dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or needing a dish that guarantees empty plates at potlucks, this casserole never disappoints. The flavor combination is bold and comforting, with layers of crispy roasted potatoes, seasoned chicken cubes, melted cheddar, crisp beef bacon, and a creamy mixture that ties it all together.

The best part? It’s incredibly customizable. Add vegetables, switch cheeses, or tweak the seasoning—this casserole adapts to any taste. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes, washed and cubed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Mixture:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella
• 4–6 slices cooked beef bacon, crumbled
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning (optional but delicious)

For Topping:

• Extra shredded cheese
• beef bacon bits
• Parsley or green onions

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut washed russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes, keeping the skins on for flavor and texture. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss until each piece is evenly coated.

Spread the potatoes on a greased baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges become golden and slightly crispy. Stir halfway through for even cooking. These potatoes will form the flavorful base of the casserole.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the potatoes are baking, cube the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken in a preheated skillet over medium heat until lightly browned and cooked through—about 7–8 minutes.

You don’t need the chicken to be fully browned; it will finish cooking in the oven. The skillet step simply adds extra flavor and keeps the chicken juicy rather than steamed.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, crumbled beef bacon, chopped green onions, and ranch seasoning if you’re using it. Mix until the ingredients form a thick, creamy blend.

This mixture gives the casserole its signature “loaded potato” flavor—rich, tangy, and cheesy with smoky hints from the beef bacon.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Pour the roasted potatoes into the bottom of the dish, then layer the cooked chicken evenly across the top.

Spread the creamy cheese mixture over everything, making sure to cover all the potatoes and chicken. Finally, sprinkle the top with another layer of shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

When you pull it out, finish with a sprinkle of extra beef bacon bits and fresh green onions or parsley. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the casserole sets and slices nicely.

Variation

One of the best things about this casserole is how adaptable it is. Try these variations:

1. Add Vegetables

• Broccoli (fresh or steamed)
• Spinach
• Bell peppers
• Sweet corn
• Green peas

2. Use Different Cheeses

• Pepper jack for spice
• Gouda for smokiness
• Monterey Jack for extra creaminess

3. Swap the Meat

• Turkey breast instead of chicken
• Ham cubes
• Crumbled Italian sausage

4. Make It Spicier

• Add jalapeños
• Use Cajun seasoning
• Mix in buffalo sauce

COOKING Note

• If you prefer crispier potatoes, roast them an extra 10 minutes before assembling.
• Don’t overcook the chicken during the skillet step—it will finish in the oven.
• For a richer casserole, use full-fat sour cream and freshly shredded cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with:

• A crisp green salad
• Steamed broccoli
• Garlic bread
• Roasted asparagus

It also pairs beautifully with a simple homemade ranch dip or a drizzle of spicy mayo for extra flavor.

Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged; it melts smoother.
• Cut potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly.
• Let the casserole rest before slicing—it helps it hold together.
• Meal-prep friendly! It reheats beautifully for 3–4 days.
• For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approx.)

Calories: 520 per serving
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 620mg
Values vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

2. Can I freeze Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely. Freeze after assembly (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake normally.

3. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes—skip the skillet step and toss shredded chicken with seasonings before adding it to the casserole.

4. What potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes give the best texture, but Yukon Golds also work well.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is everything comforting food should be—warm, hearty, flavorful, and easy. It transforms simple pantry ingredients into a rich, irresistible meal that satisfies kids and adults alike. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting guests, or meal-prepping your week, this casserole guarantees the delicious, cheesy comfort everyone craves.

Whenever you need a dependable, crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe will always deliver. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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