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I am thrilled to bring you a dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser: the Chicken Bacon Ranch Potato Bake! Imagine the comforting blend of crispy potatoes, tender chicken, gooey cheese, and smoky bacon. It’s an all-in-one meal that’s simple yet satisfying. Pair it with a crisp green salad, and you’ve got yourself a delightful dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, and the combination of ingredients is simply irresistible. The creamy texture of the Baby Boomer potatoes makes them perfect for absorbing the savory flavors of the ranch and bacon. It’s filling and perfect for those nights when you need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- A 9×12″ baking dish
- Cooking spray
- A large mixing bowl
- A sharp knife for cubing chicken and potatoes
- A spoon for mixing and tossing
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ranch dressing mix (dry powder)
- 14 medium potatoes, cubed
- 3 chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup crumbled bacon
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp black pepper
How to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 500°F and spray your baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, and ranch dressing mix. Add the cubed potatoes and toss them well in the mixture.
- Spoon the potatoes into the prepared baking dish, leaving as much of the oil mixture behind as possible.
- Roast the potatoes in the oven until they’re crispy, about 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- While the potatoes cook, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the remaining oil mixture.
- In another bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
- Once the potatoes are crispy, reduce the oven temperature to 400°F.
- Top the roasted potatoes with the raw chicken and cheese mixture, then bake for another 15-20 minutes.
- Allow the bake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it with a dollop of sour cream or extra ranch dressing.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the potatoes are well-coated in the oil mixture for maximum flavor absorption.
- Stir the potatoes during roasting to ensure they crisp evenly.
- Let the bake cool slightly before serving so the flavors can meld together perfectly.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or pork for a different twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and bacon, and the potatoes provide a great source of carbohydrates. The cheese adds calcium and a creamy texture, making it a well-rounded meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, you can use any type of potato you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and then refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Bacon Ranch Potato Bake as much as I do. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any fun variations you try. Bon appétit!
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so the chicken cook for only 20 min at 400° correct
“Roast potatoes until crispy, about 1 hr. Stirring every 15 minutes.”
This step comes before the 15-20 minutes at 400
I have begun to pre-cook my chicken as it seems to have trouble finishing when it’s covered by the cheese and bacon. Just my take on it and what has worked better for me. Nothing worse than biting into raw chicken!