Description
Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast, seasoned Yukon gold potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted Mexican cheese blend, all enhanced with zesty ranch dressing and aromatic herbs. This comforting casserole is perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 4 cups Yukon gold potatoes, unpeeled and diced
- ⅓ cup Ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Chicken Mixture
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch dice
- ⅓ cup Ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare potatoes: Preheat your oven to 450°F. In a large bowl, toss the diced Yukon gold potatoes with ⅓ cup ranch dressing, dried parsley, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread the potatoes evenly on a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes until partially cooked and slightly tender.
- Prepare and add chicken: In a separate bowl, toss the diced chicken breast with the remaining ⅓ cup ranch dressing along with salt and pepper. Remove the partially baked potatoes from the oven and layer the seasoned chicken evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to cook the chicken through and allow flavors to meld.
- Add toppings and finish baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the cooked crumbled bacon and shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape during baking.
- Make sure to cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Use cooked bacon for a smoky flavor and added crunch.
- Covering the casserole during chicken baking helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking.
- Serve hot with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
