A Cheesy, Savory One-Dish Comfort Meal
This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is a hearty, one-dish wonder that layers tender cubed potatoes, shredded chicken, rich sour cream sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. With its golden top, creamy layers, and bold flavors—it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you crave the taste of loaded baked potatoes without the mess of individual toppings.
A modern twist on comfort food, made easy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Potato Perfection: Baked russet potatoes provide a soft, starchy base with crispy edges.
- Shredded Chicken Magic: Adds protein and keeps the layers moist and rich.
- Cheesy Goodness: Sharp cheddar melts into every layer for that classic baked potato flavor.
- Bacon Boost: Crispy bits add smoky crunch and texture in every bite.
- Quick Assembly: No boiling, no frying—just layer and bake!
Ingredients (Serves 8–10):
For the Layers:
- 4 large russet potatoes , baked and cubed (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken , shredded (or grilled chicken for variation)
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese)
- ½ cup fresh green onions , chopped (or chives for milder flavor)
- 1 cup crispy bacon bits (cooked until golden – or turkey bacon for lighter option)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- ½ cup whole milk (or cream for extra richness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cube the Potatoes
Once cooled, cut the baked russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes —this helps them absorb the sour cream sauce better.
Step 3: Layer Like a Pro
In the prepared pan:
- Start with a layer of potatoes
- Top with chicken , spreading evenly
- Pour over half the sour cream-milk mixture
- Sprinkle with ½ cup cheddar cheese , bacon bits , and green onions
- Season lightly with salt and pepper
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a final layer of potatoes on top.
Step 4: Bake Covered, Then Uncover
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes , or until bubbling and warm through.
Remove the foil and bake for 5–10 more minutes , allowing the top to brown slightly and crisp up.
Step 5: Rest & Serve Warm
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing—this helps everything set and prevents burning.
Serve warm with a side of coleslaw, green salad, or garlic bread .
Each bite brings together:
- Creamy, seasoned sour cream sauce
- Tender, buttery cubed potatoes
- Juicy, savory chicken pockets
- Crispy, smoky bacon bites
- And that sharp, golden cheddar finish
Tips for Success:
- Use Cold Hands: Helps cube and layer ingredients without sticking.
- Sour Cream Hack: Whisk sour cream with milk until smooth—this thins it slightly for better layering.
- Make Ahead Magic: Assemble and refrigerate overnight—bake fresh when ready.
- Extra Cheese Option: Sprinkle Parmesan or additional cheddar on top before baking.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños for heat.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
- Great for school lunches, family dinners, or meal prep.
- Ideal with a cold drink like lemon water, beer, or sweet tea.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 8 servings – approximate):
(With regular cheese and sour cream – per slice)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: ~15g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~4g
This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated to be incredible. With its rich layers, bold toppings, and creamy finish—it’s a must-bake for lovers of potato-based comfort dishes.
