If you’re looking for a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal, this Chicken and Potato Bake is the perfect comfort food! Juicy seasoned chicken, tender roasted potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together for a one-pan dinner that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a winner! Plus, it’s budget-friendly and made with simple pantry staples.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 lbs potatoes (russet, Yukon gold, or red), diced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Toppings:
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Season the Chicken & Potatoes
1️⃣ In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and thyme.
2️⃣ Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3️⃣ In the same bowl, coat the chicken pieces with a little more olive oil and the same seasonings. Set aside.
Step 3: Bake the Potatoes First
1️⃣ Place the potatoes in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
Step 4: Add the Chicken & Bake Again
1️⃣ Remove the baking dish from the oven and place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the potatoes.
2️⃣ Return to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce
1️⃣ While the chicken and potatoes bake, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
2️⃣ Stir in heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and both cheeses. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Assemble & Serve
1️⃣ Drizzle the cheese sauce over the baked chicken and potatoes.
2️⃣ Sprinkle crispy bacon bits and chopped green onions on top.
3️⃣ Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream, if desired!
Cooking Notes & Tips
✔ Want it extra crispy? Broil for 3-5 minutes at the end for a golden crust.
✔ Use different cheeses! Try pepper jack, gouda, or Monterey jack for variety.
✔ Need a shortcut? Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and bake for only 15 minutes to warm everything through.
✔ Make it spicy! Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for a kick.
Variations
🔹 Keto & Low-Carb Version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets and reduce the baking time.
🔹 Loaded Ranch Chicken Bake: Mix ranch seasoning into the potatoes and top with extra cheddar cheese.
🔹 Buffalo Chicken Bake: Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce before baking for a spicy twist!
🔹 BBQ Chicken & Potato Bake: Drizzle with BBQ sauce instead of cheese sauce for a smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep and season the chicken and potatoes in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
🔹 Can I freeze it?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze before baking. Assemble everything except the cheese sauce, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50-55 minutes.
🔹 How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the microwave.
This Cheesy Chicken and Potato Bake is easy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
👉 Try it tonight and let me know how it turns out!
