Chicken and Potato Casserole

Introduction:

This Chicken and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with tender chicken, creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a hearty, one-dish meal that the whole family will love. The casserole features savory seasonings and is finished off with a topping of sour cream and green onions, giving it a loaded baked potato flavor in casserole form!

Ingredients:

• For the Casserole:
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 lbs red potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes:
   • In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
   • Add the cubed potatoes and chicken to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.
3. Bake the Chicken and Potatoes:
   • Spread the seasoned chicken and potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
   • Bake for 45-50 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender, lightly browned, and the chicken is fully cooked.
4. Add the Toppings:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and top it evenly with the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
   • Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes.
   • Top with sour cream and chopped green onions before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Chicken and Potato Casserole:

• Keep Ingredients Bite-Sized: Cutting the chicken and potatoes into small, uniform pieces ensures even cooking.
• Crisp Up the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the casserole for the best texture.
• Experiment with Add-Ons: You can add vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms, or even use different cheeses like Pepper Jack or Gouda for variation.

Storage Instructions:

• To Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• To Freeze: Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months.
• To Reheat: Cover and microwave portions until heated through, or reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion:

This Chicken and Potato Casserole is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for leftovers. The blend of chicken, potatoes, smoky bacon, and melty cheese, all topped with sour cream and green onions, will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy it as a main course for a satisfying meal that warms both the body and the soul!