Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole Recipe

There is something truly comforting about a classic casserole, and this Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole brings all those cozy vibes to your table with a delicious twist. Imagine tender chunks of chicken layered with hearty red potatoes, crisp roasted broccoli, and smoky bacon all brought together in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This dish delivers a perfect balance of textures and colors that not only satisfy your hunger but also bring a smile to your face with every bite. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is wonderfully straightforward, with each one playing an essential role in building the rich flavors and satisfying textures of the Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole. From the creamy sour cream to the crispy bacon and fresh broccoli, every component brings a little magic to the dish.

• 1 Pound bacon: Provides smoky crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
• 12 oz Broccoli: Adds a bright green color and a fresh, crisp bite after roasting.
• 3 pounds Chicken breast: Tender and juicy, the main protein that makes this casserole filling.
• 2 Pounds red potatoes (large diced): Hearty and soft, they create a comforting base.
• 1 Bunch green onions (sliced): Delivers a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• 1/2 Cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses subtle savory notes.
• 2 Cups sour cream: Creates a creamy texture that binds the ingredients together.
• 1 1/2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts perfectly to add rich, tangy goodness.
• 1 Teaspoon Paprika: A dash of smoky warmth and subtle color enhancement.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper: Adds a gentle kick of heat to balance the creaminess.
• 1/2 Teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors so they shine.
• 1/2 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (additional): Used for topping to create a bubbly golden crust.

How to Make Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Bacon to Perfection

Start by placing your bacon on a broiler pan and popping it into a 400-degree oven. Cooking it for 17 to 20 minutes until golden brown will produce irresistibly crispy bacon that’s full of smoky flavor, a highlight of the casserole. Set aside the cooked bacon, reserving a small amount for topping later.

Step 2: Roast the Broccoli Florets

Cut the broccoli into florets and spread them on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Roasting them at 400 degrees for 16-20 minutes makes them wonderfully crisp and slightly caramelized, which adds a beautiful texture contrast to the creamy casserole layers.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken for Tenderness

While the broccoli roasts, quarter your chicken breasts and boil them in water until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees, about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the chicken moist and perfectly cooked, ready to be shredded for the casserole.

Step 4: Boil the Red Potatoes

In a large pot of heavily salted water, boil the diced red potatoes for 20 minutes or until tender. Well-cooked potatoes form an ideal base layer, absorbing flavors while offering a hearty bite within the casserole.

Step 5: Prepare Your Ingredients

Once everything is cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and crumble the crispy bacon. Slice the green onions, reserving a tablespoon for the top of the casserole later. Now your ingredients are ready to be assembled into layers.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole Layers

Generously grease a 9 x 13 inch pan to prevent sticking. Spread the potatoes evenly as the base, then layer the shredded chicken on top, followed by the roasted broccoli. These layers create a wonderful combination of textures and flavors that are sure to delight.

Step 7: Mix and Spread the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled bacon (except the reserved tablespoon), green onions, chicken broth, sour cream (save a tablespoon for garnish), 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar, paprika, salt, and pepper. This luscious mixture adds creaminess and seasoning that ties all components together. Spread it evenly over the broccoli layer.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes to meld flavors and heat through. Then uncover, sprinkle with the reserved 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for a glorious topping, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese bubbles and browns beautifully.

Step 9: Add the Final Touches

Finish off your Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole by topping it with the reserved crispy bacon, green onions, and dollops of sour cream. These garnishes elevate both the flavor and presentation, making every bite even more satisfying.

How to Serve Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole

Garnishes

Adding fresh green onions and extra sour cream on top adds freshness and creaminess that complement the rich casserole. A sprinkle of additional crispy bacon provides a crunchy contrast that invites you back for more.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands delightfully on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread can round out the meal nicely. Light, fresh vegetables help balance the casserole’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or layered in clear glass baking dishes so everyone can admire the colorful layers before digging in. You can also turn it into individual portions for potlucks or family gatherings, making it easy and elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as comforting as freshly made.

Freezing

Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350 degrees covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Uncover for the last 5 minutes to restore the golden cheese topping and crisp bacon.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh broccoli tends to roast better and hold a crispier texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain it well before adding to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely! Ensure your chicken broth and any other packaged ingredients are gluten-free. This recipe naturally avoids gluten, making it perfect for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I substitute chicken breasts with another protein?

Sure! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for convenience, or you can try cooked turkey breast as a lean alternative. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make the casserole creamy without sour cream?

You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use cream cheese blended with a bit of milk or broth to keep the creamy texture intact.

Can this dish be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free sour cream and a plant-based cheese substitute. While the flavor will be different, the casserole will still be rich and comforting.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners and special enough to bring to family gatherings. I encourage you to try making it soon, as it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings deliciousness, color, and joy into every bite.

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