Name: Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 4 cups potatoes, cubed; 1 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)

Loaded potato ranch chicken casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and hearty potatoes, all enveloped in a creamy ranch sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. Below, you'll find a detailed guide to preparing this delicious casserole, including the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, cooking notes, serving suggestions, and tips.

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1.5 lbs baby potatoes, cut into quarters
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to bake the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss the quartered potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until they start to get tender.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
While the potatoes are roasting, heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they are no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted potatoes, cooked chicken, ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until everything is well-coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Then, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Cooking Notes:

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before mixing it with other ingredients.
The potatoes should be tender but not overly soft after roasting since they will cook further in the casserole.
Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning based on your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips:

Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the casserole and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach into the casserole for added nutrition.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, to customize the flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 750mg

Conclusion

Loaded potato ranch chicken casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. With its combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and creamy ranch dressing, topped with melted cheese and bacon, it’s a guaranteed hit. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, this casserole is perfect for any occasion. Try it out and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with your loved ones!