Hearty Loaded Chicken and Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Benefits and Advantages of Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole

The loaded baked potato chicken casserole recipe is celebrated for its simplicity and hearty flavor, making it a top choice for busy weeknights and casual family meals. By combining familiar ingredients like tender shredded chicken, baked potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon, this casserole delivers comforting richness with balanced nutrition. The dish provides a substantial amount of protein from the chicken, paired with comforting carbohydrates from potatoes, supporting a satisfying, energy-rich meal. Its easy assembly saves time without compromising on taste. This recipe’s versatility allows for customization, accommodating different dietary preferences and restrictions, which makes it suitable for a wide range of eaters. The blend of creamy textures and savory flavors ensures that it stands out among casserole favorites, making mealtime both enjoyable and nourishing.

Essential Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole

• 3 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked and shredded)
• 3 cups baked potatoes, cubed (Russet or Idaho recommended)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (can substitute sharp white cheddar)
• 1 cup sour cream (regular or light)
• ½ cup green onions, plus extra for garnish
• ½ cup crispy crumbled bacon (bacon bits can be used as an alternative)
• ⅓ cup olive oil (optional for roasting potatoes)

This combination provides a comforting blend of flavors and textures: the potatoes offer a creamy and starchy base, the chicken supplies lean protein, and the cheese and bacon add savory richness. Sour cream imparts moisture and tanginess, while green onions give a fresh, subtle sharpness. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the well-rounded and delicious casserole.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole

To tailor this casserole for various dietary needs, several substitutions are effective without sacrificing flavor. Vegetarians can swap chicken for mushrooms or plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh. For vegans, non-dairy sour cream and cheese substitutes, alongside plant-based “chicken” products, work well to preserve creaminess and protein content. Although naturally gluten-free, verify that packaged ingredients such as bacon bits and seasoning blends are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

For a lower-calorie version, use reduced-fat cheddar or substitute with part-skim cheese, and replace sour cream with Greek yogurt to maintain moistness while cutting fat. To manage sodium intake, select low-sodium bacon or skip it entirely, using smoked paprika or liquid smoke as a flavor enhancer. These options maintain the casserole’s hearty character while addressing specific nutritional requirements.

How to Prepare the Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare potatoes: Bake whole Russet or Idaho potatoes in advance until tender using the oven, microwave, or air fryer. Once cooled, peel if desired and cube into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, use sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
3. Cook potatoes: Boil diced potatoes in salted water until just tender but firm, about 10-15 minutes, then drain well to prevent excess moisture.
4. Mix sour cream and seasonings: In a large bowl, combine sour cream with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and chopped green onions.
5. Combine casserole ingredients: Gently fold the shredded chicken, baked potato cubes, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the sour cream mixture. For creamier texture, carefully mash some of the potatoes while mixing.
6. Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly in the greased casserole dish.
7. Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crispy crumbled bacon on top. For vegan adaptations, use dairy-free cheese and bacon substitutes.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, let cool briefly, then garnish with additional fresh green onions before serving.

This method offers a straightforward path to a flavorful and hearty casserole. Modifications for dietary preferences or ingredient availability can be seamlessly incorporated at various stages, making the recipe convenient and adaptable for households of all kinds.

For techniques on cooking potatoes perfectly, refer to How to Cook Baked Potatoes Perfectly.

Additional casserole preparation tips are available at Tips for Making Casseroles.

Advanced Tips and Variations

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your loaded baked potato chicken casserole, start by ensuring the baked potatoes are thoroughly drained or patted dry. Excess moisture can make the casserole soggy, so this step is crucial for a perfect balance between creamy and crispy. Using freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese instead of store-bought pre-shredded varieties will melt better and add deeper flavor.

For added nutrition and texture, incorporate steamed vegetables such as broccoli, corn, or bell peppers into the mix. This not only boosts the vegetable content but also adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy casserole base.

If you’re a fan of a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sour cream mixture for a spicy twist. To introduce a crunchy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole in the last 5 minutes of baking.

For those watching carb intake, substitute some or all of the potatoes with lightly mashed cauliflower florets, which offers a lower-carb but still creamy alternative. Herbed variations with fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives can lend aromatic depth and an herbal brightness to the dish.

How to Store Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your loaded baked potato chicken casserole fresh and flavorful. After cooking, allow the casserole to cool at room temperature for no longer than two hours. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The casserole is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to maintain quality.

For longer preservation, freeze the casserole by tightly wrapping it with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without significant loss of taste or texture. When ready to reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes or until heated through, which helps retain the casserole’s creamy texture and crunchy top. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered to prevent drying out, stirring halfway through for even warming.

These storage tips help reduce waste while providing convenient meal options for busy days.

Nutritional Value of Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole

This hearty casserole provides a balanced blend of macronutrients, with protein-rich chicken supporting muscle maintenance and repair. The fat content, while significant, is largely from natural sources like cheese and bacon and can be moderated through substitutions. Potatoes offer carbohydrates and fiber, although skin-on potatoes increase fiber content. Vitamins and minerals contribute to overall nutrition, making this casserole a filling and wholesome option.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole

Hearty Loaded Chicken and Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

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• Author: Isabella Hayes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

🍗 Enjoy a hearty casserole combining tender chicken and baked potatoes for a comforting, filling meal.
🧀 Perfectly balanced with sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon for rich flavor and satisfying texture.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

3 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked and shredded)
3 cups baked potatoes, cubed (Russet or Idaho recommended)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 tablespoon paprika (optional)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup sour cream (regular or light)
1/2 cup green onions, plus extra for garnish
1/2 cup crispy crumbled bacon (bacon bits as alternative)
1/3 cup olive oil (optional for roasting potatoes)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare baked potatoes ahead by baking whole potatoes until tender; cool and cube.
3. In a bowl, mix sour cream with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and green onions.
4. Combine sour cream mixture with shredded chicken, cubed potatoes, and half the shredded cheddar; gently mash potatoes if desired.
5. Spread mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
6. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and crispy bacon over the top.
7. Bake for 20 minutes or until heated through and edges are bubbling and golden.
8. Garnish with extra green onions before serving.

Notes

🥔 Cook baked potatoes in advance to save time; peel or leave skins on as preferred.
🍗 Use any shredded chicken variety; season chicken beforehand for added flavor.
🥓 Reserve some bacon and green onions for topping after baking to maintain crispiness and freshness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 405
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 924mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 117mg

Keywords: Hearty, Loaded, Chicken, Casserole