This Crack Chicken and Potato Skillet Casserole is everything you love about comfort food—cheesy, savory, and packed with flavor—without all the fuss! With crispy potatoes, tender chicken, and that irresistible Parmesan garlic sauce, it’s a one-pan dinner that the whole family will devour. And yes, it lives up to the name—this dish is addicting!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins, cut into small pieces
- 1 bag frozen cubed potatoes (or fresh potatoes, if you prefer)
- 1 bottle Parmesan garlic sauce (Buffalo Wild Wings or Olive Garden brand, but any garlic-Parmesan dressing will work)
- Minced garlic (about 2-3 tbsp)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix—your call!)
- 1 tbsp butter (for cooking chicken)
- Smoked paprika (about 1 tsp)
- Onion salt (about 1/2 tsp)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cut-up chicken tenderloins and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
- Once the chicken is cooked, add a large spoonful of minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken and garlic evenly. Let it cook for another minute to release the flavors.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- While the chicken is cooking, take the frozen cubed potatoes and air fry them at 400°F for about 25 minutes or until they’re golden and crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until crispy.
- Combine Chicken and Potatoes:
- After the potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the cooked chicken.
- Pour in about half the bottle of Parmesan garlic sauce and mix everything together until the potatoes and chicken are well coated. Taste and add more dressing if you want it saucier!
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the mixture. The cheese will melt and become bubbly as it bakes.
- Bake:
- Place the skillet in the oven and bake at 400°F for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and enjoy this cheesy, garlicky, crispy, and creamy dish. You’ll have a new favorite weeknight meal!
Q&A
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
- A: Yes, you can! If you want to use fresh potatoes, just peel and cube them, then roast them in the oven or air fryer with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper until crispy. It may take a bit longer than frozen potatoes, but they’ll be just as delicious!
Q: What if I don’t have Parmesan garlic sauce?
- A: If you don’t have Parmesan garlic sauce, you can make your own by mixing ranch dressing with Parmesan cheese and a little garlic powder. Or, use any creamy dressing you like and add some extra garlic for that flavor kick!
Q: Can I add veggies to this?
- A: Absolutely! Feel free to throw in some steamed broccoli, spinach, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to mix them in with the chicken and potatoes before baking.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
- A: This casserole is best fresh out of the oven, but you can definitely prep the chicken and potatoes ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them before baking when you’re ready to eat.
Why This Recipe is a Winner:
- Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: With crispy potatoes, tender chicken, and creamy, cheesy goodness, it’s a comfort food lover’s dream.
- Customizable: Whether you want to add veggies, switch up the cheese, or use a different dressing, this dish can be tailored to fit your taste.
- Cheesy, Crispy, and Flavorful: That crispy potato topping with melty cheese and the garlicky chicken—need I say more?
This Crack Chicken and Potato Skillet Casserole is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Enjoy the cheesy goodness! 🧀🍗