This warm and hearty casserole features tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh asparagus all baked with golden potatoes. It’s a great mix that makes dinner feel special!
Who doesn’t love a dish that combines all the good stuff in one pan? I like to make this on busy nights—it’s easy to toss together and great for leftovers if there are any! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this casserole. If you want to save time, rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute. Just shred it and layer it with the other ingredients for quicker cooking.
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet potatoes for their fluffy texture. However, you can also try Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you prefer a creamier taste. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with different types.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for its crunch and flavor. If it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli can make a good substitute. Both add nice color and taste to the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its intense flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat cheese works fine too. Alternatively, mix in some Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different twist.
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be used for a healthier option. Just remember that Greek yogurt is tangier, so it’s worth tasting first!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Cooked Evenly?
Layering your casserole properly is crucial for even cooking. Start by spreading the sliced potatoes on the bottom, as they will take longer to cook. Make sure they are evenly seasoned for the best flavor.
- Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes before layering the chicken. This helps with browning.
- Season each layer. I like to sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on the chicken as well, for thorough seasoning.
- Ensure the sour cream mixture coats everything generously. This moisture helps the potatoes cook tender without burning.
- While placing the asparagus on top, try to cover the chicken entirely, as this will keep it moist during baking.
Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to settle. This way, each bite is just as good as the last!
How to Make Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 50 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish! It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for serving a family or friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake!
2. Layer the Potatoes:
Grab a large baking dish and start by laying the thinly sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. Drizzle some olive oil over the potatoes, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to give it some flavor.
3. Place the Chicken:
Now, take the boneless chicken breasts and place them right on top of the seasoned potatoes. Don’t forget to season the chicken with a bit more salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for extra flavor.
4. Make the Sour Cream Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and chicken broth until it’s nice and smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken and potatoes, making sure everything is coated well.
5. Add the Asparagus:
Next, arrange the trimmed asparagus on top of the chicken. Try to space them out so that every bite has a bit of that tasty green goodness!
6. Sprinkle the Cheese:
It’s cheese time! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the asparagus layer. Who doesn’t love extra cheese, right?
7. Bake the Casserole:
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. The kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Add the Bacon:
In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the casserole. This will add a nice crispy finish to your dish. Return it to the oven to let the bacon crisp up a bit more.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your casserole is done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, serve it warm and enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon gold or russet potatoes work great, you can also use red potatoes or sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; sweet potatoes might cook a little faster, so check for tenderness earlier.
What if I Don’t Have Asparagus?
No problem! You can substitute asparagus with vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or spinach. If using spinach, add it during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare everything, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through.
