Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole

Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole 🥔🍗🧀

This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best flavors of a loaded baked potato with tender shredded chicken. Creamy sour cream, gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh green onions come together in a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its layers of flavor and textures, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe!

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Classic : Combines the rich, creamy flavors of a loaded baked potato with savory chicken for a hearty meal.
2. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for any home cook.
3. Customizable : Add jalapeños, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.
5. Kid-Friendly : A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 4 large baked potatoes , peeled and cubed 🥔
• 2 cups cooked chicken , shredded 🍗
• 1 cup sour cream 🥄
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese , divided 🧀
• ½ cup green onions , chopped 🌿
• 1 cup bacon bits 🥓
• Salt and pepper , to taste 🧂⚫
• ½ cup milk 🥛

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed baked potatoes , shredded chicken , sour cream , milk , salt , and pepper . Stir gently until everything is well coated and evenly mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread half of the potato mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese , half of the green onions , and half of the bacon bits over the top to create a flavorful layer.
3. Spread the remaining potato mixture over the first layer, smoothing it out evenly.
4. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese , green onions , and bacon bits , creating a cheesy, colorful finish.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
   • Optional : For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.
2. Garnish with additional green onions or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Success

1. Use Leftover Potatoes : This is a great way to use up leftover baked potatoes—just peel and cube them!
2. Add Heat : Stir in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Make Ahead : Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day . Bake just before serving, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
4. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked portions in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
5. Switch Up the Protein : Use turkey, ham, or plant-based protein for variety.

Perfect Pairings

This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Side Salad : Serve with a crisp green salad or Caesar salad for balance.
• Garlic Bread : Pair with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for soaking up the creamy goodness.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a cold soda for refreshment.
• Fresh Fruit : Serve with fresh berries, sliced apples, or orange segments for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~350 kcal
• Protein : ~20g
• Carbohydrates : ~25g
• Fat : ~20g
• Fiber : ~3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or a potluck, this casserole delivers on flavor and texture. The combination of tender potatoes, savory chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon creates a dish that’s as indulgent as it is comforting.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, adjust the flavors, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your baked potatoes, shred that chicken, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.