Chicken and loaded baked potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Combining tender, juicy chicken with creamy potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a touch of green onions, this dish brings the best of classic flavors together in one hearty meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave a filling, satisfying dish that everyone will love.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its layers. Soft, buttery potatoes form the base, while seasoned chicken adds protein and substance. A rich cheese sauce binds everything together, and the topping of crispy bacon and fresh green onions adds texture and flavor. Every bite offers a combination of creamy, cheesy, savory, and slightly crunchy elements that make it irresistible.
To make this casserole, gather your ingredients. You will need two to three cups of cooked chicken, shredded or cubed. For the potato component, use four to five medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced. You will also need one cup of sour cream, half a cup of milk, two tablespoons of butter, and one teaspoon of garlic powder. For the cheesy goodness, prepare one and a half cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Additionally, cook a few strips of bacon until crispy and crumble them for the topping. Finish with two to three green onions, sliced thinly. Salt and pepper are added to taste.
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming, prepare the potatoes. Boil them in a large pot of salted water until they are tender but not falling apart. Drain the potatoes well and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the butter, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture until it is creamy but still has some texture.
Next, fold in the shredded chicken and one cup of cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The addition of cheese at this stage helps create a rich and creamy texture that will melt beautifully during baking.
Grease a baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray, then spread the potato and chicken mixture evenly into the dish. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This extra layer of cheese will create a golden, bubbly topping when baked.
Bake the casserole for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and starting to turn golden. While the casserole is baking, prepare the bacon topping. Fry the bacon until it is crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Slice the green onions thinly and set them aside.
Once the casserole comes out of the oven, sprinkle the crumbled bacon and green onions evenly over the top. The warm, crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch, while the green onions provide a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the creamy, cheesy potatoes. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and make it easier to portion.
This dish is extremely versatile. You can customize it according to your preferences. For instance, adding sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or a pinch of paprika can elevate the flavors. For a lighter version, substitute half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt or use reduced-fat cheese. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different taste profile.
Serving this casserole is simple and satisfying. It pairs beautifully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even a simple loaf of bread to soak up the creamy, cheesy goodness. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave. The casserole tends to thicken slightly after refrigeration, but a splash of milk can help restore its creamy texture when reheating.
In conclusion, chicken and loaded baked potato casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its creamy potatoes, tender chicken, rich cheese, and crispy bacon topping make it a crowd-pleaser that will be requested again and again. This recipe is easy to prepare, customizable to suit your tastes, and delivers the kind of warmth and satisfaction that only a homemade casserole can provide. Whether served at a family dinner or brought to a gathering, it’s a dish that embodies comfort, flavor, and heartwarming satisfaction.