Description
This Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish! Juicy chicken, tender potatoes, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a flavorful ranch seasoning blend make every bite irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this casserole combines all the crowd-pleasing ingredients into one easy, satisfying recipe.
Ingredients
Here are 5 key ingredients for this casserole (full list in the recipe card below):
- Chicken breast or thighs: Tender, protein-packed pieces that cook perfectly in the casserole.
- Russet potatoes: They hold up well and develop a creamy texture when baked.
- Ranch seasoning mix: Adds that signature herby, tangy flavor.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey deliciousness, tying everything together.
- Bacon: Provides a smoky, crispy contrast to the creamy potatoes.
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Dice the potatoes and chicken into bite-sized pieces. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season and assemble: Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the ranch seasoning. Spread them evenly in a greased baking dish. Layer the chicken pieces on top, sprinkle with remaining ranch seasoning.
- Bake and crisp: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, stir everything, and top with shredded cheese and cooked bacon.
- Final bake: Return to the oven, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch and serve hot!
Notes
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the ranch dressing for 30 minutes before assembling the casserole.
- Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1½ cups
- Calories: 660 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 982mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 53g
- Cholesterol: 181mg