Description
This Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, seasoned potatoes, creamy ranch dressing, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a comforting casserole that serves six, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 cups potatoes, cubed (about 3 large potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Chicken and Toppings
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated. Spread the potatoes in a single layer in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until they begin to soften and develop a golden brown color.
- Coat Chicken: While the potatoes are baking, place the cubed chicken in a bowl and toss with ranch dressing to coat all pieces thoroughly.
- Add Chicken to Potatoes: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Evenly distribute the ranch-coated chicken over the partially cooked potatoes.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ranch dressing with a homemade version for a fresher taste.
- Use already cooked bacon to save preparation time.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving by checking that its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before eating.
