A Cozy Dinner In the Making
My Favorite is Chicken and Bacon Mashed Potato Bake and As I stood in my cozy kitchen, I couldn't help but smile at the sight of the ingredients laid out before me. There was something comforting about the thought of making my Chicken and Bacon Mashed Potato Bake. I started by seasoning the chicken breast and cooking the bacon until it was perfectly crispy. The smell of sizzling bacon was enough to make anyone's mouth water. Once the bacon was done, I used the same pan to cook the chicken, letting it become tender and juicy. This was my kind of meal—simple, hearty, and full of flavor.
Preparing the Potatoes
While the chicken and bacon were cooling, I turned my attention to the russet potatoes. I peeled and chopped them, then set them to boil. As the potatoes cooked, I could hear them gently bubbling away, creating a soft, comforting hum in the kitchen. Once tender, I drained them and mashed them with cream cheese, garlic, and a touch of olive oil. The result was a creamy, dreamy mashed potato mixture that would form the base of my casserole.
Assembling the Casserole
Next came the fun part—assembling the casserole. I took the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon, combining them into a delicious mixture. In my baking dish, I spread half of the mashed potatoes, then layered the chicken and bacon on top, and finished with the remaining mashed potatoes. I sprinkled the rest of the bacon on top to add a delightful crunch. As I placed the dish in the oven, I knew it was going to be worth the wait. The aroma that filled the kitchen was nothing short of heavenly.
The Final Touch
After baking the casserole to golden perfection, I let it rest for a few minutes. When I finally served it up, the blend of creamy mashed potatoes, savory chicken, and crispy bacon was everything I hoped for. Each bite was a comforting reminder of why I love cooking. This Chicken and Bacon Mashed Potato Bake was the ultimate cozy meal—perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It was simple, delicious, and left everyone at the table with full hearts and satisfied bellies.
Table of Contents
Chef's Notes-Chicken and Bacon Mashed Potato Bake
- Adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking can enhance the dish with a cheesy, golden crust.
- Pair the casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal with a fresh and nutritious touch.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or chives after baking for a burst of color and added flavor.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a hot, fresh meal.
- If the mashed potatoes seem too thick, add a bit more water or a splash of milk to reach your preferred consistency.
Chicken and Bacon Mashed Potato Bake
4
servings20
minutes30
minutes450
kcal5
minutes55
minutesDive into this mouthwatering Chicken and Bacon Mashed Potato Bake! It's a delightful blend of creamy mashed potatoes, tender pulled chicken, and crispy bacon, all baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. It's simple, affordable, and customizable to your taste. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this comforting and hearty casserole!
Ingredients
- Chicken and Bacon
1 boneless skinless chicken breast about 6 ounces
3 strips of bacon
- Potatoes
3 medium russet potatoes
- Seasonings and Add-ins
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup cream cheese
5/8 teaspoon kosher salt
5/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Liquid
1/2 cup water
- Aromatics
2 cloves garlic minced
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breast with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a nonstick pan over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove bacon and set aside on paper towels to drain. In the same pan, cook the chicken breast until fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per side). Let it cool slightly before shredding with two forks.
- While the chicken is cooking, peel and chop the russet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment
- chef's knife
- cutting board
- nonstick pan
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 900mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ-Chicken and Bacon Mashed Potato Bake
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just ensure they are cooked until tender and properly mashed.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or a plant-based meat and use turkey bacon or tempeh bacon instead of regular bacon. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mashed potatoes for a bit of heat. You can also season the chicken with additional spices like paprika or cayenne pepper.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Consider serving it with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls would also complement the dish nicely.
