Chicken Potato Casserole Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Casseroles are comfort food gems. One dish that always warms the soul is chicken potato casserole. It’s easy to prepare and feeds a crowd, making it a go-to for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. 

My love for this recipe doesn’t just stem from nostalgia; it springs from its versatility and depth of flavor. Ready to transform simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy delight? Let’s get cooking!

What is Chicken Potato Casserole?

Chicken potato casserole is a filling dish that combines tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and a blend of seasonings and cheese, baked to perfection. It’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly warm, with each bite delivering a comforting embrace. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability.

Why This Recipe Works

Several factors make this chicken potato casserole recipe stand out:

1. Flavor Balance: The smokiness of paprika and the richness of cheese meld beautifully, enhancing every bite.
2. Texture Contrast: The creaminess of the casserole pairs with crispy bacon and tender chicken, giving you multiple textures in one dish.
3. Ease of Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time for maximum flavor. The oven does much of the work for you.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish?

Let’s gather our ingredients before diving further into the cooking process!

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 5 medium-sized Russet potatoes, peeled, rinsed, and diced into 1-inch chunks
• ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• ½ cup crispy, crumbled bacon
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

How to Make Chicken Potato Casserole?

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get started.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping all the ingredients. Chop the chicken and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. This step sets the foundation for the dish.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. The flavors will seep in beautifully as the dish bakes.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken until it’s browned on the outside but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth to the flavor.

Step 4: Mix Chicken and Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed chicken and the diced potatoes. Add in the crispy bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything gently to avoid breaking the potatoes.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every piece gets the same love during baking. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch before serving. Enjoy every bite!

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffy texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sautéing it only partially ensures the chicken stays juicy.
• Feel Free to Experiment: Add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers Delight: Mix different cheeses for a unique flavor. Gouda or mozzarella can work wonders.
• Make it a One-Dish Meal: Adding veggies to the mix can turn this casserole into a complete meal.

How to Store Leftovers?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to lock in moisture and prevent drying out in the oven.

How Would I Recommend Serving Chicken Potato Casserole?

Consider these serving suggestions:

• With a Side of Fresh Salad: A light salad brightens up a hearty meal.
• Top with Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and a tangy flavor contrast.
• Add Hot Sauce: For those who like a kick, drizzle some hot sauce for a spicy touch.
• Pair with Beer: A cold beer can complement the dish, making it perfect for gatherings.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

Here are some ingredient substitutions:

• Chicken: Turkey breast works equally well. It’s lean and has a similar texture.
• Potatoes: Sweet potatoes can add a touch of sweetness and are a nutritious swap.
• Cheese: For a lighter option, feta cheese can bring a different flavor profile to the casserole.
• Bacon: For a vegetarian version, use smoked tempeh or simply omit the bacon altogether and add more seasoning.

Conclusion

Chicken potato casserole is a comforting, fulfilling dish that stands out as a crowd favorite. Its ease of preparation, flavorful depth, and adaptability make it a staple in many homes. 

Whether enjoyed during Sunday family dinners or casual weekday meals, this recipe never disappoints. So grab the ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the warmth this casserole brings to your table!

Print Recipe

Chicken Potato Casserole Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Author: Susan Roberts Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 55 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 354 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Before we dig deeper into the delightful chicken potato casserole recipe, let’s consider some perfect pairings that complement its rich flavors. A fresh garden salad, featuring a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette, can cut through the casserole's creaminess and add a refreshing contrast. 

For those who love a bit of crunch, garlic bread is a fantastic choice; its buttery texture is ideal for soaking up any extra sauce. Steamed veggies like broccoli, green beans, or carrots provide a light balance to the hearty casserole, keeping the flavors bright without overpowering the dish. 

Finally, a fruit salad with sweet elements like watermelon, strawberries, or a citrus medley adds a refreshing touch and a pop of color to your plate. With these accompaniments, you’re set for a delightful meal!

Now, let’s dive into this recipe.

Ingredients

Servings

• 1 ¹⁄₂ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1-inch pieces

• 5 medium-sized 5 Russet potatoes, peeled, rinsed, and diced into 1-inch chunks

• ¹⁄₂ tablespoon smoked paprika

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• ¹⁄₂ cup crispy, crumbled bacon

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 green onions, finely sliced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Start by prepping all the ingredients. Chop the chicken and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. This step sets the foundation for the dish.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. The flavors will seep in beautifully as the dish bakes.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken until it’s browned on the outside but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth to the flavor.

Step 4: Mix Chicken and Potatoes

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed chicken and the diced potatoes. Add in the crispy bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything gently to avoid breaking the potatoes.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every piece gets the same love during baking. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch before serving. Enjoy every bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 357kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 7.4g12%

Saturated Fat 1.7g9%

Cholesterol 21mg8%

Sodium 575mg24%

Total Carbohydrate 61g21%

Dietary Fiber 5g20%

Sugars 6g

Protein 13g26%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffy texture.
• Don't Overcook the Chicken: Sautéing it only partially ensures the chicken stays juicy.
• Feel Free to Experiment: Add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers Delight: Mix different cheeses for a unique flavor. Gouda or mozzarella can work wonders.
• Make it a One-Dish Meal: Adding veggies to the mix can turn this casserole into a complete meal.

Keywords: chicken potato casserole recipe