This Chicken and Potato Casserole brings together tender chunks of chicken and golden roasted potatoes in a symphony of flavors. Seasoned with aromatic spices and topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, it’s the epitome of comfort food that warms both the heart and soul.
Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this casserole requires minimal preparation yet delivers maximum satisfaction. Its one-pan nature ensures easy cleanup, making it a go-to recipe for those seeking both convenience and deliciousness in their meals.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the diced potatoes and chicken cubes to the bowl, tossing to ensure even coating.
- Transfer the chicken and potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions evenly over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Potato Casserole
This casserole is the ultimate comfort meal—it’s warm, cheesy, and packed with hearty ingredients. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a meal that is not only satisfying but also perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or even serving at gatherings. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Key Features of This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything is baked together in a single dish, making it easy and convenient.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easily accessible.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat for a quick meal.
- Customizable: You can switch up the seasonings, add different cheeses, or include more veggies for extra nutrition.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but you can also use thighs for more juiciness.
- Potatoes – Russet potatoes hold up well in the oven and soak in all the flavors.
- Olive Oil & Seasonings – A mix of paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper gives the dish a well-rounded flavor.
- Cheese – Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top for a gooey, rich finish.
- Bacon – Adds a smoky, crispy element that complements the tender chicken and potatoes.
- Green Onions – Give the dish a fresh pop of color and a mild, zesty flavor.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Crispier Potatoes: If you like a crispier texture, bake the potatoes for 10 minutes before adding the chicken.
- Add Veggies: Try adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for a more nutritious twist.
- Use Different Cheeses: Mix in some mozzarella, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese entirely.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
- A slice of garlic bread or a warm dinner roll pairs perfectly with this dish.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with ranch dressing or a dollop of sour cream.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a natural sweetness and extra fiber to the dish.
Q: What can I use instead of bacon?
A: You can substitute it with turkey bacon, crispy prosciutto, or leave it out for a lighter version.
Q: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
This Chicken and Potato Casserole is the definition of a cozy, hassle-free dinner that’s both filling and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Recipe Breakdown
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
- Chicken Breasts – Lean and high in protein, keeping the meal balanced and filling.
- Russet Potatoes – Starchy and absorbent, they bake to a perfect crisp-tender texture.
- Olive Oil – Helps crisp up the potatoes while keeping the chicken moist.
- Cheddar Cheese – Provides a creamy, rich topping that brings all the flavors together.
- Bacon – Adds smoky, salty crunch that enhances the entire dish.
- Green Onions – A fresh garnish that brightens up the flavors.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Chicken and Potato Casserole is a hearty, satisfying meal that brings together tender, juicy chicken, creamy melted cheese, and crispy bacon in one delicious dish. With minimal prep time and easy baking instructions, this casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. The combination of savory seasonings, golden-baked potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese makes it an instant crowd-pleaser.
What Makes This Dish Special?
- One-Pan Meal: No need to juggle multiple pots and pans—everything bakes in one dish.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Easily Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, cheese, and veggies to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: A meal that both kids and adults will love!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead, store it, and reheat for quick meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Potato Casserole is the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and hearty flavors in a simple one-pan meal. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. With its crispy potatoes, juicy chicken, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting homemade meal with minimal effort!