Loaded Potato and Chicken Bake:
Ingredients:
- 6 medium-sized red potatoes, washed and cubed
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon crumbles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed red potatoes with olive oil and your preferred seasonings. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried parsley for added flavor. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in the greased baking dish.
- In the same bowl (no need to clean it), add the diced chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
- Scatter the seasoned chicken over the layer of potatoes in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes and chicken, covering them evenly.
- Finally, sprinkle bacon crumbles over the cheese layer for that extra flavor and crunch.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and become golden and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious Loaded Potato and Chicken Bake
here are some tips to make your Loaded Potato and Chicken Bake even better:
- Evenly Sized Ingredients: Try to cube the potatoes and dice the chicken into similar sizes to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Precook the Chicken: If you prefer, you can quickly sauté or bake the diced chicken with some olive oil and seasoning before adding it to the potatoes. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out during the baking process.
- Layering: Layering is key in this dish. Make sure to spread the potatoes evenly on the bottom of the baking dish, followed by the chicken, cheese, and bacon. This helps to distribute the flavors and ingredients throughout the dish.
- Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Potatoes and chicken can both benefit from bold flavors. Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the dish to your taste preferences.
- Cheese Selection: While cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for added depth of flavor.
- Crunchy Topping: For an extra crispy and crunchy topping, mix some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese layer before baking. This adds another layer of texture to the dish.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding freshly chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme just before serving can elevate the flavors and add a pop of freshness to the dish.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Consider serving your Loaded Potato and Chicken Bake with a side of sour cream, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce for dipping. It adds another dimension of flavor and creaminess to the dish.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well, so don’t worry if you have leftovers. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Customize: Feel free to customize this recipe based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor
