If you are craving comfort food with a delightful twist, this Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy chicken cubes perfectly marinated in a smoky, spicy blend, nestled on top of crispy, golden roasted potatoes, all topped with melted cheddar, diced ham, and fresh green onions. This dish brings together the best parts of a loaded baked potato and hearty chicken casserole in one satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. The layers of flavor and texture make every bite unforgettable, inviting you back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe lies in a few simple but essential ingredients that build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a vital role in bringing this dish to life, from the crispy potatoes to the spicy marinade and savory toppings.
- 2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cubed chicken provides tender protein that soaks up the spices beautifully.
- 8-10 medium russet potatoes: Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, with the potatoes roasting to crispy perfection.
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: Helps coat the potatoes and chicken, giving a golden finish and enhancing flavor.
- 1 1/2 tsp salt: Balances and elevates every component without overpowering.
- 1 tbsp ground black pepper: Adds a touch of sharpness and warmth; freshly ground works best.
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika: Brings that irresistible smoky aroma that ties the dish together.
- 2 tbsp garlic powder: Delivers a mellow garlic note that enhances the overall taste.
- 6 tbsp hot sauce: Adds a lively kick and helps marinate the chicken and potatoes deeply.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, savory topping.
- 1 cup cooked diced ham: Provides a salty, meaty contrast that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup thinly sliced green onions: Adds a fresh, slightly sharp finish and a burst of color.
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture
Start by combining the extra virgin olive oil, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. Mixing these ingredients well ensures the bold flavors will infuse both the chicken and potatoes, giving the casserole its signature smoky, spicy taste that makes this Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe so special.
Step 2: Coat and Roast the Potatoes
Add the cubed potatoes to the spice mixture bowl, stirring until each piece is evenly coated. Transfer the potatoes to a greased 9×13 baking dish, leaving excess marinade behind. Bake at 500°F for 45-50 minutes, stirring every 10-15 minutes to help them cook evenly and develop a delicious crispy exterior. This step creates that coveted golden crust on the potatoes that’s key to the dish’s satisfying texture.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
While the potatoes bake, place the cubed chicken breast in the remaining spice mixture from the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. This marinating time lets the chicken soak up those smoky, spicy notes, making each bite flavorful and tender.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Potatoes
Once the potatoes are perfectly roasted, pull the baking dish from the oven. Spread the marinated chicken evenly over the top of the potatoes, then lower the oven temperature to 400°F, preparing for the final bake.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham, and sliced green onions. Sprinkle this colorful, savory mixture over the chicken and potatoes. These toppings add creaminess, a touch of smoky saltiness, and fresh bursts of flavor and color that complete the casserole perfectly.
Step 6: Bake to Finish
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through fully, and the cheese to melt into a bubbly, irresistible topping that signals it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove your Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe from the oven and serve it hot. For an extra flavor boost, offer sides of hot sauce, ketchup, ranch dressing, or sour cream. These condiments let everyone customize their bites for maximum satisfaction.
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions sprinkled on top after baking add a vibrant pop of color and a burst of mild onion flavor, enhancing the overall presentation and taste. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing to each serving for extra creaminess and tang.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing side salad or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The lightness and crunch balance the rich, hearty flavors of the dish, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins or small casserole dishes for single servings. You can also sprinkle extra cheese and green onions on top just before serving for a fresh, melty finish. It’s a great way to impress guests or make weeknight dinner feel a bit more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more overnight, and reheated portions remain just as delicious and comforting.
Freezing
This Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps the potatoes crispy on the edges while ensuring the chicken stays juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes and follow the same marinating and cooking steps.
What if I don’t have hot sauce on hand?
No worries! You can substitute with a dash of cayenne pepper or a bit of chili powder to maintain the spicy kick. Adjust to your heat preference.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your hot sauce and other ingredients don’t contain any hidden gluten additives.
How spicy is this Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe?
The level of spice is moderate and can be adjusted by the amount of hot sauce you add. Feel free to tweak it to suit your family’s taste buds!
Can I prepare this recipe ahead and bake it later?
You can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add the cheese and other toppings fresh before baking for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly heartwarming about this Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe. It’s a perfect dish for cozy nights in or feeding a hungry crowd with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a staple in your dinner rotation—it truly brings comfort and smiles in every bite!
Print
Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes + 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole combines tender cubed chicken with crispy roasted russet potatoes, all smothered in a flavorful blend of cheddar cheese, diced ham, and green onions. Perfectly spiced and baked to bubbly perfection, this hearty casserole offers a delicious twist on the classic loaded baked potato, making it an ideal comforting meal for families and gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2–3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
Potatoes
- 8–10 medium russet potatoes, skin on, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
Spice Mixture & Marinade
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 6 tbsp hot sauce
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked diced ham
- 1 cup thinly sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the spice mixture: In a large bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, hot sauce, salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended into a uniform marinade.
- Coat and roast potatoes: Add the cubed russet potatoes to the bowl with the spice mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure each potato piece is evenly coated. Transfer the potatoes to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, leaving any remaining marinade in the bowl behind. Place the dish in a 500°F oven and roast for 45-50 minutes, stirring every 10-15 minutes to achieve crispy exteriors and tender interiors.
- Marinate the chicken: While the potatoes are roasting, add the cubed chicken breasts into the leftover spice mixture in the bowl. Stir to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate at room temperature while the potatoes finish cooking.
- Combine chicken and potatoes: After the potatoes are cooked and crispy, remove the baking dish from the oven. Spread the marinated chicken pieces evenly over the roasted potatoes. Lower the oven temperature to 400°F to prepare for baking the whole casserole.
- Add the toppings: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked diced ham, and thinly sliced green onions. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes in the baking dish, distributing toppings to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Bake to finish: Return the casserole to the 400°F oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Bake until the chicken is fully cooked through, and the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden in spots.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and serve hot. For added flavor, offer sides such as extra hot sauce, ketchup, ranch dressing, or sour cream to complement each portion.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Roasting potatoes at a high temperature and stirring occasionally helps achieve a perfect crispy texture.
- Feel free to customize toppings by adding bacon bits or substituting ham with cooked sausage.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven.
- This casserole can be made ahead by preparing the potatoes and chicken separately, then assembling and baking when ready to serve.
