Cheesy BBQ Chicken Potatoes

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken and Potatoes recipe brings the comforts of tender seasoned potatoes and smoky chicken together under a blanket of bubbling cheddar. With simple prep and a crowd-pleasing flavor, it is the perfect weeknight hero. My family always races to the table for this one pan meal and it is a regular feature for game nights and Sunday suppers alike.

I whipped up this meal on a whim one busy weeknight and it became an instant favorite. Now I get requests for it at every family potluck.

Ingredients

• Yellow potatoes: add a creamy texture and crisp edges when roasted Yukon golds are fantastic but any potato will taste great look for firm smooth potatoes free of eyes or soft spots
• Olive oil: helps crisp the potatoes and adds subtle flavor stick with extra virgin for the best taste
• Salt pepper and garlic blend: lends seasoning to each bite you can mix your own from pantry staples or use a store-bought blend
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: cook up tender and soak in the smoky spices choose plump pieces without bruising or excess fat
• BBQ rub: brings smoky sweet and spicy notes pick your favorite for customizing the dish check ingredients for no excessive sugar
• Avocado oil: is neutral and tolerates higher heat you can swap for canola or grapeseed if needed
• BBQ sauce: coats everything in tangy sweet glaze homemade or store-bought both work select one with real tomato and natural sweeteners if possible
• Sharp cheddar cheese: delivers rich melty flavor shred it yourself for best melt and texture
• Cooked bacon: adds smoky crunch and extra savoriness thicker cut holds up best in this casserole style dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Season the Potatoes:

Chop potatoes into even bite-sized pieces so they cook uniformly. Toss them with olive oil and your salt pepper and garlic blend in a large bowl making sure every piece gets coated.

Air Fry the Potatoes:

Arrange potatoes evenly in your air fryer basket. Set temperature to four hundred degrees and cook for twenty to twenty five minutes. Shake the basket a couple of times during cooking so they brown and crisp on all sides.

Season and Cook the Chicken:

While potatoes are cooking cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces and roll them in BBQ rub until every piece is well coated. Warm avocado oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add chicken in a single layer and let it cook for about five to seven minutes stirring occasionally until the pieces are golden and reach an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees.

Combine Everything:

Once chicken is cooked and potatoes are crisp pour potatoes into the skillet with the chicken. Drizzle in BBQ sauce and gently toss to combine until every piece is glossy with sauce.

Bake with Cheese and Bacon:

Spread your BBQ chicken and potato mix out in a casserole dish. Top with sharp cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon. Bake uncovered at four hundred degrees for ten to fifteen minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling. Serve hot right from the dish.

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The sharp cheddar always steals the show for me I love the way it bubbles and browns on top of the casserole My kids love to help sprinkle the cheese and bacon before it hits the oven turning dinner into a small family event

Storage Tips

Store extra portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until piping hot and the cheese is gooey again. Avoid freezing if possible as potatoes may lose texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Any type of potatoes can stand in for yellow potatoes even sweet potatoes for a different twist. Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you like extra juiciness. You can use any shredded cheese if cheddar is not handy and a turkey bacon or plant based bacon works well.

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Serving Suggestions

I love pairing this casserole with a crunchy green salad or roasted green beans to balance the meal. It is perfect for potlucks and works beautifully as a main dish with some bread on the side to mop up the sauce.

Cultural and Historical Context

BBQ chicken casseroles like this one reflect the classic comfort food tradition of mixing convenience and creativity. This dish fits right into the American love affair with bold backyard barbecue flavors and hearty one pan meals.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! Any potato variety works well, whether Yukon Gold, Russet, or red potatoes. Adjust air-frying time as needed for size and texture preference.

→ What are some recommended cheese alternatives?

Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, but you can try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for extra flavor. Smoked gouda is also delicious for a deeper taste.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish without an air fryer?

Yes, simply roast the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet in a conventional oven at 400°F until golden and crispy before combining them with the other ingredients.

→ How can I customize the sauce flavors?

Swap out classic barbecue for ranch, honey mustard, buffalo, or even a tangy parmesan dressing based on your mood or pantry staples.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or buttery corn on the cob make excellent companions for this savory chicken and potato meal.

→ Can the dish be made ahead?

You can prep the chicken and potatoes ahead of time, then assemble and bake right before serving for best texture and freshness.