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Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of chicken and potatoes simmering away, ready to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Our Loaded Chicken & Potatoes dish is the perfect solution for those busy days when you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the savory goodness of chicken thighs with the creamy richness of cheesy potatoes. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only about 3 hours from start to finish. With the addition of vibrant peppers, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is anything but bland.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Frying pan
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed (1″)
- 6-8 medium skin-on red potatoes, cut in 1/2″ cubes
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 Tbsp paprika
- 2 Tbsp garlic powder
- 2 Tbsp hot sauce (more if you like it HOT)
For the Topping:
- 2 cups fiesta blend cheese
- 1 cup crumbled bacon
- 1 cup diced green onion
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Add the cubed potatoes and chicken, then stir to coat everything evenly. Carefully scoop the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the potatoes and chicken for 55-60 minutes, stirring every 20 minutes, until they are cooked through, crispy, and browned on the outside. While the potatoes are cooking, fry your bacon until crispy.
- Once the potatoes and chicken are fully cooked, remove them from the oven. Top with cheese, bacon, and green onions. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve with extra hot sauce and/or ranch dressing or sour cream for added flavor!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the chicken and potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice preference.
- Stirring every 20 minutes helps achieve an even crispiness.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try using sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.
- Swap out the fiesta blend cheese for cheddar or mozzarella based on your taste preference.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and provides a good source of carbohydrates from the potatoes. The cheese adds calcium, while the green onions bring a fresh element and some vitamins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and potatoes mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to eat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Our Loaded Chicken & Potatoes recipe is a delightful, comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. We invite you to try it out and share your experiences with us. Happy cooking!
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