Chicken turkey bacon potatoes

These Chicken turkey bacon Ranch Loaded Potatoes deliver serious comfort in every bite with fluffy roasted potatoes as the base, tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, melty cheese, and a creamy drizzle of ranch. Whether you are hosting friends on game day or just need a cozy dinner, this recipe always brings people back for seconds. Each topping comes together to create an ultimate forkful of creamy, crispy, savory flavor. The first time I made this was for a Sunday night movie meal, and it quickly became one of our favorite ways to turn humble potatoes into a true family treat.

I made these one stormy Saturday after our grocery run was canceled and we had to make do with what was in the fridge and pantry. Since then, my husband requests them every time we have leftover chicken or turkey bacon.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: give you the best structure and crispy outside when roasted Choose firm potatoes without sprouts or blemishes
• Chicken breasts: add tender bites of protein and soak up the seasonings Use fresh, high-quality chicken without off odors
• Turkey bacon: offers loads of smoky flavor and less fat than pork bacon Pick a brand with visible meat and not just fat
• Seasoned salt: packs a punch and creates a crave-worthy seasoned crust Go for a blend you love or try homemade
• Olive oil: helps everything crisp and brown evenly Look for extra virgin olive oil for best flavor
• Ranch seasoning: adds herby ranch notes directly to the chicken and potatoes Use store-bought or make your own blend
• Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and adds sharpness Freshly shredded off the block melts best
• Ranch dressing: ties the whole dish together with creaminess Try to use a chilled, tangy ranch from the refrigerator section if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

Peel the potatoes and cut them into small, evenly sized cubes so they roast and crisp up at the same rate Place them in a colander and rinse well under cold water to remove the excess starch Pat the potatoes totally dry with clean paper towels before putting them in a mixing bowl This keeps the potatoes from steaming

Season the Potatoes and Chicken:

Trim the chicken breasts and dice them into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and stay tender Add the olive oil to your bowl of potatoes Sprinkle about three teaspoons of seasoned salt over the potatoes Toss until every piece is coated and glossy

Cook the Potatoes:

Pour the seasoned potatoes into your air fryer basket Set the temperature to 400 degrees F Cook for twenty minutes Toss or shake the basket every five minutes so the potatoes brown all over and cook evenly They are ready when golden and crisp edged

Cook the Turkey Bacon:

While the potatoes cook add chopped turkey bacon to a large cold skillet Place over medium-high heat so the bacon cooks evenly without burning Stir occasionally and let cook for about ten minutes or until it turns crispy When done transfer the turkey bacon to a paper towel lined plate to drain excess fat

Cook the Chicken:

Using the same skillet add your diced chicken Cook for seven to eight minutes over medium heat stirring often until the chicken pieces are completely cooked through and slightly golden Drain any juices or grease from the pan Sprinkle remaining seasoned salt and ranch seasoning over the chicken and toss to coat

Combine the Ingredients:

Add the crispy air fried potatoes to the skillet with your cooked chicken Stir in half the cooked turkey bacon and half a cup of ranch dressing Toss gently so everything is coated evenly

Bake with Cheese:

Transfer the chicken potato mixture to a baking dish if not using an oven safe skillet Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top along with the reserved turkey bacon Bake in a preheated 350 degree F oven for ten to fifteen minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly

Finish and Serve:

Drizzle extra ranch dressing on top for a creamy finish and serve hot with a big spoon

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Turkey bacon is my favorite part of this dish I love how it gets extra crispy in the pan and infuses everything with smoky flavor The night my youngest tried it for the first time she declared it “bacon magic” and asked for seconds before the rest of us finished our first plate

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for best results If you need to freeze them pack cooled portions in freezer safe containers or bags and thaw overnight before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap sweet potatoes for russet potatoes for a different flavor profile Any cooked chicken can work including leftover rotisserie If you prefer pork or vegetarian bacon those both taste great For cheese try mozzarella or Monterey jack and for extra veggies toss in chopped bell peppers or spinach

Serving Suggestions

Serve these loaded potatoes alongside a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a well rounded dinner Set out extra toppings like green onions diced tomatoes or jalapenos for people to customize their own plates For parties or tailgates offer as a shareable platter with small plates so everyone can dig in

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Cultural History

Loaded potatoes draw on classic American comfort food traditions Each region adds their own spins and toppings South and Midwest diners often reach for ranch and cheddar while game day gatherings everywhere celebrate with hearty potato based casseroles This remains the kind of feel good dish that brings families and friends together

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?

Ensure the potatoes are cut evenly and dried thoroughly before cooking. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer or skillet to promote even crisping.

→ What is the best way to cook the turkey bacon for a smoky flavor?

Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, then drain excess grease using paper towels to maintain the smoky taste without greasiness.

→ Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses?

Yes, cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack work well and offer different creamy and spicy flavor profiles.

→ How should I season the chicken for best results?

Use seasoned salt and ranch seasoning as suggested, ensuring even coating for a flavorful and juicy chicken topping.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Fresh garden or Caesar salads and steamed or roasted vegetables complement the rich and savory flavors of this dish perfectly.