Baked Chicken and Loaded Potato Casserole

### Instructions for Making Baked Chicken and Loaded Potato Casserole

Now, let’s walk through the steps to create this flavorful and comforting casserole. It’s simple, but the end result is an unforgettable dish that’s sure to please.

#### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Potatoes**

1. **Preheat Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Potatoes:** Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Let the potatoes cook for about 8-10 minutes until tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.

#### **Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken**

1. **Season the Chicken:** Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly on both sides.
2. **Cook the Chicken:** Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

#### **Step 3: Make the Loaded Potato Mixture**

1. **Prepare the Creamy Base:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the potatoes are coated in the creamy mixture.
2. **Add Bacon and Cheese:** Stir in the crumbled bacon and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (reserve the remaining cheese for the top of the casserole).

#### **Step 4: Assemble the Casserole**

1. **Layer the Ingredients:** Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the creamy loaded potato mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish.
2. **Add the Chicken:** Arrange the sliced or chopped cooked chicken on top of the potato mixture, spreading it out evenly.
3. **Top with Cheese:** Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring it covers everything.

#### **Step 5: Bake the Casserole**

1. **Bake:** Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and allow the cheese to melt.
2. **Uncover and Finish Baking:** After 25-30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly on top.
3. **Garnish and Serve:** Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions, if desired, for a burst of color and flavor.

### Tips for the Best Baked Chicken and Loaded Potato Casserole

– **Use Leftover Chicken:** If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken, this recipe is a great way to repurpose it, saving you time in the kitchen.
– **Make It Ahead:** You can prepare this casserole in advance by assembling it the night before and storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and bake as instructed.
– **Add Vegetables:** For extra flavor and nutrition, consider adding vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to the casserole. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before mixing them into the potatoes.
– **Adjust the Cheese:** Feel free to mix up the cheeses to suit your preferences. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even gouda can be used for a different flavor profile.
– **Spicy Option:** If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the casserole for a spicy kick.

### Final Thoughts

**Baked Chicken and Loaded Potato Casserole** is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, cheesy potatoes combined with the tender chicken and crispy bacon create a hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes.

Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors in every bite!