Cajun Chicken Potato Bake

This Cajun Chicken Loaded Potato Bake is a comforting meal that brings together roasted potatoes, perfectly seasoned chicken, and a cheesy, bacon-topped finish that will satisfy your cravings for something hearty and full of flavor.

I first made this recipe when I wanted to impress some friends, and now it is a regular request at family gatherings because everyone loves how tender the chicken and crispy potatoes come together with melty cheese and bacon.

Ingredients

• Two large boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces: cooks quickly and soaks up seasoning well
• Olive oil: helps with roasting and adds a subtle fruitiness
• Cajun seasoning: the soul of the dish offering heat and layers of spice, try to choose a high-quality blend with smoked paprika, garlic, and cayenne
• Four medium russet potatoes peeled and cut into cubes: starchy variety that roasts up golden and creamy inside
• Salt and black pepper: basic seasoning to enhance all the other flavors
• Smoked paprika: for smoky depth, look for a bright red powder for the best aroma
• Shredded cheddar cheese: for melting on top, sharp or extra sharp cheddar adds a nice punch
• Cooked bacon: crumbled for crispy, salty texture
• Chopped green onions: for a fresh, mild onion flavor
• Sour cream: adds creaminess and cool contrast to the warm spices

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare oven and pan:

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil or use nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Season and roast potatoes:

In a large bowl, toss the potato cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until they are well coated. Spread them in a single even layer inside the prepared baking dish.

Roast potatoes:

Place the potatoes in the oven and roast for about 20 minutes. Halfway through roasting, stir the potatoes once to ensure they brown evenly on all sides and don’t stick to the pan.

Season chicken:

While the potatoes roast, place the cubed chicken in a bowl and combine with olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Mix until every piece is fully coated this will ensure a flavorful bite every time.

Combine chicken and potatoes:

After the potatoes have roasted for 20 minutes, take the baking dish out of the oven and scatter the seasoned chicken pieces evenly over the potatoes.

Bake until tender:

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The potatoes will be fragrant, golden, and tender by the end of this step.

Top with cheese and bacon:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the bake. Then return it to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Add green onions and sour cream:

Take the dish out of the oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped green onions. Add dollops of sour cream over the top to bring a cooling element that balances the spices. Serve it hot.

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My favorite part is the Cajun seasoning—it gives just enough smoky heat to the chicken without overpowering the creamy potatoes and cheese. Making this on a chilly evening with family around the table is one of my fondest comfort food memories.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the potatoes tender and the cheese melty. This bake also freezes nicely; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have russet potatoes, Yukon golds will also work but may not be quite as fluffy on the inside. For the Cajun seasoning, you can make your own mix with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Use turkey bacon or omit the bacon for a lighter option; you can add nuts for crunch if you like.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this potato bake with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to add brightness. A glass of crisp white wine or iced tea pairs nicely. For a heartier meal, add steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans on the side.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which crisps nicely when roasted while staying tender inside.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Increase or decrease the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit preferred heat, or add jalapeños for extra kick.

→ What’s the best way to ensure chicken cooks evenly?

Cut chicken into uniform cubes and spread evenly atop partially roasted potatoes, then bake until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead?

Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh before serving for best flavor and texture.

→ What alternatives can I use for toppings?

Try diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack to customize the dish.

→ Is this suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, all primary ingredients and seasonings here are naturally gluten-free.