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This loaded baked potato and chicken casserole brings together everything I love about cozy family dinners into one bubbling dish crisp beef bacon tender chicken and heaps of creamy cheese all layered over buttery potatoes It started as a way to use up leftovers but has become our go to when we crave something indulgent yet fuss free
Each time I make it I am reminded how quickly it disappears at potlucks My husband actually requests it before big game days
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: large size baked and cooled for hearty texture choose firm potatoes with smooth skins for best results
- Rotisserie chicken: shredded for convenience and deep flavor use a freshly roasted one for best moisture
- Full fat sour cream: adds rich tanginess fresh cream will give the deepest flavor
- Sharp cheddar cheese: shredded for melt and punch look for aged cheddar which melts smoother and tastes bolder
- Fresh green onions: bring a punch of color and light onion flavor pick bunches with crisp green tops
- Real beef bacon bits: for real meaty crunch check labels for true beef not imitation
- Salt and black pepper: bring all flavors together use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for best seasoning
- Whole milk: helps make the sauce velvety use full fat for creaminess
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bake and Prep the Potatoes:
- Bake russet potatoes until fork tender cool then cube into one inch pieces Precise cubes help every bite get coated in creamy sauce
- Layer Potatoes in Your Baking Dish:
- Arrange half the potatoes in a greased nine by thirteen inch baking dish Spread even so every scoop has potato base
- Add Chicken Layer:
- Scatter half the shredded rotisserie chicken evenly on top of potatoes Tuck down any large pieces for even layers
- Mix and Pour Cream Mixture:
- Whisk together sour cream and milk until super smooth No lumps gives the casserole silky corners Drizzle half over the dish
- Sprinkle Fillings:
- Scatter half the cheddar half the green onions and half of the beef bacon bits across this layer Season lightly with salt and pepper
- Repeat All Layers:
- Add all remaining potatoes chicken cream cheese green onions and beef bacon bits to build a second story of flavor
- Bake Covered:
- Cover tightly with foil Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for thirty five to forty minutes until piping hot and bubbling throughout
- Finish for Crispy Top:
- Uncover and bake another five to ten minutes for deep golden brown cheese Let rest five minutes so everything settles before serving
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Every time I open the oven to that scent of bubbling cheese and beef bacon my son rushes in asking for the first scoop The golden potato corners are always his favorite part
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing Slice into squares before packing into airtight containers It keeps well in the fridge up to three days For longer storage wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to two months Reheat slow and gentle in the oven to keep the texture creamy
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap sweet potatoes if you want a touch of earthy sweetness Turkey bacon or regular bacon slices work if you do not have beef bacon For extra veggies fold in steamed broccoli or corn alongside the chicken Use Monterey Jack or Gruyere in place of cheddar for a different flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a big green salad for balance For even more richness top each plate with a dollop of extra sour cream or a few dashes of hot sauce Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans on the side work great too In our house dinner is always followed by a bowl of crispy apple slices to cut through the richness
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The Origin of This Comfort Classic
Loaded potato casseroles like this draw on classic American steakhouse flavors Potatoes cheddar bacon and sour cream are Midwestern staples This version with chicken turns it from a side to a main making it both comforting and practical Busy families have relied on casseroles for decades because they stretch simple ingredients into hearty meals
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I ensure my potatoes are tender inside?
Bake the russet potatoes until easily pierced with a fork before cubing. This ensures they cook through and remain fluffy in the casserole.
- → Can I substitute chicken breast for rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Use cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs in place of rotisserie for similar flavor and texture.
- → What's the best way to achieve a golden top?
Remove the foil for the final 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese and bacon to crisp and brown nicely.
- → Is there a recommended cheese variety for more flavor?
Sharp cheddar is used for rich flavor, but you can blend in Monterey Jack or Gouda for extra depth.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to one day ahead. Bake just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.