LOADED CHICKEN & POTATOES - Easy Recipes Life

Welcome to our hearty and flavorful recipes section! Today, we’re sharing a delicious recipe for Loaded Chicken & Potatoes. This dish combines juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a blend of cheese, bacon, and seasonings, creating a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is bound to be a hit. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Potatoes:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cups baby potatoes, quartered
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
2 green onions, sliced
1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, quartered baby potatoes, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken and potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings and oil.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken and Potatoes

Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned chicken and potatoes in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender and golden brown.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Bacon

Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
Return to Oven: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve

Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve hot, with a dollop of sour cream on top if desired. Enjoy your Loaded Chicken & Potatoes!

Cooking Notes and Tips

Chicken: Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes work best, but you can use any small, waxy potatoes. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces.
Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese or a cheese blend.
Bacon: For a quicker option, use pre-cooked bacon crumbles.

Variations

Spicy Loaded Chicken & Potatoes

Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.

BBQ Loaded Chicken & Potatoes

Replace the olive oil with 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy flavor.

Veggie Loaded Chicken & Potatoes

Add 1 cup of chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the chicken and potatoes for added vegetables and flavor.

Ranch Loaded Chicken & Potatoes

Mix 1 tablespoon of dry ranch seasoning into the seasoning mix for a ranch-flavored twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, spread them on the baking sheet and proceed with the recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Loaded Chicken & Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use olive oil spray instead of the full amount of olive oil, reduce the amount of cheese and bacon, and add more vegetables.

Loaded Chicken & Potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful chicken, tender potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones!