If there’s one dish that packs supreme comfort, one-pan simplicity, and crowd-pleasing, fork-twirling goodness into every bite, it’s this Loaded Chicken Casserole. Imagine layers of tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy potatoes, and a bubbling blanket of cheddar, all coming together for a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck showstopper, this casserole gets rave reviews every single time. You’re only a handful of ingredients and under an hour away from a dish that’s as easy to make as it is impossible to resist!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Loaded Chicken Casserole is refreshingly simple but each item serves a delicious purpose. Every part of this casserole brings something special—creamy, cheesy, hearty, or savory—making every forkful irresistible.
- Cooked chicken (3 cups, shredded or diced): Rotisserie or leftover chicken is ideal for saving time and adding a savory base.
- Frozen hash brown potatoes (4 cups, thawed): These add quick, creamy texture and make prep ultra-easy.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon (1 cup): Gives that craveable smoky crunch in every bite.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds rich creaminess and tang to balance all the hearty flavors.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): Provides a velvety texture that pulls the casserole together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): Melts into gooey perfection and creates a golden top.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle warmth and savory depth.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts flavor and aroma for that special something.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors of everything else in the dish.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of earthy spice.
- Green onions (2, sliced, for garnish): Fresh and colorful, these bring a pop of flavor at serving time.
How to Make Loaded Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While you’re waiting, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray. This step ensures your casserole comes out easily and keeps clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded or diced chicken, thawed hash browns, cooked bacon, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until all the ingredients are well mixed—this is where that Loaded Chicken Casserole magic begins!
Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour your hearty mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out in an even layer. This ensures every bite has a bit of everything. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. The cheese will bake into a bubbly golden crust that’s hard to resist.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden and the edges are sizzling. The aroma alone is enough to gather the family to the table!
Step 5: Let It Rest and Garnish
Remove the Loaded Chicken Casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything set for easy slicing. Just before serving, sprinkle those fresh sliced green onions on top—they add both color and a subtle sharpness that balances the richness.
How to Serve Loaded Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
Don’t skip the garnishes! A shower of freshly sliced green onions is classic, but you can dress things up with chopped parsley, additional bacon bits, or even a dollop of sour cream on each serving. These little extras turn your casserole into something worthy of a special occasion.
Side Dishes
Loaded Chicken Casserole is definitely a meal on its own, but if you’re feeding a crowd or want to round out the table, consider some easy sides. A simple green salad brings freshness and crunch, while steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans add a burst of color and nutrition. Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are perfect for sopping up that cheesy sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving portions of the casserole in ramekins for individual servings—perfect for a dinner party. Or, give it a brunch spin by topping with a fried egg. You can even pile it high onto baked potatoes for a cozy, two-in-one meal. However you plate it, everyone will swoon over how inviting it looks!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Loaded Chicken Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. The flavors only deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to!
Freezing
This casserole freezes perfectly, making it ideal for meal prep. Let it cool completely, then wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or portion into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months—just remember to label and date it!
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole casserole (covered with foil) in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20 to 25 minutes. If you want to restore that irresistible cheesy crust, uncover for the last few minutes of warming.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and brings plenty of flavor to this Loaded Chicken Casserole. Just shred or dice it and you’re good to go.
Are there any veggie add-ins you recommend?
Definitely! Steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or even diced bell peppers can be folded right into the mixture for a colorful and nutritious boost. It’s an easy way to customize your casserole.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer something lighter, turkey bacon works well, or you can skip the bacon entirely for a vegetarian spin—just add extra veggies and a pinch of smoked paprika for that savory flavor.
Can I assemble Loaded Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake as directed when you’re ready to eat. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Is there a way to make this gluten free?
To create a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and make sure your hash browns and other ingredients are certified gluten free. The rest of the recipe stays the same and is just as delicious!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a go-to family dinner or something to bring everyone running to the table, Loaded Chicken Casserole is it. It’s easy, adaptable, and so positively delicious, you’ll want to make it again and again. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes one of your most requested recipes!
Print
Loaded Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Loaded Chicken Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, hash browns, and creamy cheese for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (thawed)
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, hash browns, bacon, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Bake: Spread the mixture in the baking dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese, and bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with green onions, and serve.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- Enhance with steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms.
- Substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *