Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to whip up and bursting with flavor? This Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is the answer. With tender chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, gooey cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, this casserole combines comfort food classics in one delicious pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or family gatherings, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
4 cups potatoes, cubed (about 3 large potatoes)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spread them evenly in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until they begin to soften and brown.
Season the Chicken: While the potatoes are baking, toss the cubed chicken with ranch dressing until well coated.
Combine and Bake: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Layer the ranch-coated chicken evenly over the potatoes, then sprinkle the cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh parsley over the top before serving.
Serving Tips:
Accompaniments: Serve this casserole alongside a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw for a balanced meal. The freshness of a side salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the casserole.
Bread Pairing: Offer garlic bread, dinner rolls, or crusty bread on the side. These are perfect for scooping up the creamy ranch sauce.
Optional Toppings: Provide extra toppings like sour cream, chopped chives, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce to add more depth of flavor to each serving.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld together more as it sits, making leftovers even tastier.
Freezing: To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating Tips:
Microwave: For single servings, reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.
Oven: To reheat the entire casserole, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated throughout.
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FAQs:
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! You can swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor. Sweet potatoes will add a bit of sweetness and a nutritious twist to the casserole, though they may require slightly more cooking time.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and follow the baking instructions.
Can I substitute the ranch dressing with a homemade ranch sauce?
Absolutely! If you’d prefer to use a homemade ranch dressing, just make sure it’s creamy and well-seasoned. A simple mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs can work as a great substitute.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
If you like a little heat, you can add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the casserole before baking. You could also use a spicy ranch dressing or top it with hot sauce for an added kick.
Conclusion:
This Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is an ideal recipe for anyone looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dish packed with flavor. With simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and a taste everyone will love, this casserole is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
📖 Recipe:
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Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish made with tender chicken, crispy potatoes, melted cheddar, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or potlucks, this easy casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines all your favorite flavors into one hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
4 cups potatoes, cubed (about 3 large potatoes)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, toss cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spread evenly in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes start to soften and brown.
- While the potatoes bake, toss cubed chicken with ranch dressing.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and add the ranch-coated chicken, spreading it evenly over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra crispiness, cook bacon until fully crispy before adding it to the casserole.
To make this dish spicier, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking.
This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Comfort Food, Family Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
