Instant Pot Bacon Chicken Ranch Baked Potato Casserole
Instant Pot Bacon Chicken Ranch Baked Potato Casserole is a quick and easy pressure cooker recipe with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Instant Pot Bacon Chicken Ranch Baked Potato Casserole is a quick and easy pressure cooker recipe with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp chives
- 16 oz skinless chicken breasts
- 3 slices uncured, nitrate-free bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 6 red potatoes (medium sized and cut into chunks)
- 1/2 cup plain, non-fat greek yogurt
- 1 cup reduced fat cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 2 tbsp green onions (chopped)
- 3/4 packet ranch seasoning (i used hidden valley)
- mccormick's grill mates chicken seasoning to tast
- Carbohydrate 0.353110499947777 g
- Cholesterol 58.7173398762162 mg
- Fat 3.71017532722609 g
- Fiber 0.172080006378259 g
- Protein 21.3790263780985 g
- Saturated Fat 1.79770196450958 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (119g)
- Sodium 145.652422638299 mg
- Sugar 0.181030493569519 g
- Trans Fat 0.47336921399264 g
- Calories 125 calories
Step-by-step
- Add the olive oil to the pot. You can also use cooking spray.
- Turn the Instant Pot on the saute function.
- Season the chicken breasts with the chicken seasoning.
- Saute the chicken for 2 minutes on each side until the chicken turns white.
- Add the potato chunks and chicken broth to the Instant Pot with the chicken breasts.
- Put the lid on the pot and adjust the settings to the Manual 10 minutes.
- When the pot beeps allow the Instant Pot to release steam on its own without quick release for 10 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pot. Using two knives or a knife and fork, shred the chicken. Set aside.
- Mash the potatoes with a hand mixer or a potato masher inside the pot.
- Add the remaining ingredients and the chicken to the pot, except for the cheeses. Only add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese here.
- Season with paprika, chives, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all of the ingredients.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- Spray a baking pan with cooking spray. Add the mixture to the baking pan.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Cool before serving.
Instant Pot Bacon Chicken Ranch Baked Potato Casserole: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like an impossible task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and extracurricular activities, the last thing I want is to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That's why I'm constantly on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Instant Pot Bacon Chicken Ranch Baked Potato Casserole is one such recipe – a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It's a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. The Instant Pot does most of the heavy lifting, tenderizing the chicken and potatoes perfectly in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. And the creamy, cheesy topping? Oh, my goodness, it’s pure comfort food perfection. The bacon adds a salty, smoky crunch that balances the richness of the cheese and potatoes. The ranch seasoning provides a subtle tang that elevates the entire dish to another level.
This casserole is incredibly adaptable to your dietary needs and preferences. Feel free to swap out the cheeses for your favorites or add other vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrients. You can even use different types of potatoes depending on what you have on hand. The possibilities are endless! This recipe has become a regular in our household, and I’m sure it will become a go-to for you as well. It’s a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a casual weeknight meal.
Beyond the Recipe: Embracing Efficiency in the Kitchen
For years, I struggled to balance my career ambitions with my desire to provide my family with nourishing home-cooked meals. I felt the pressure to be the perfect professional and the perfect mom, often leading to feelings of exhaustion and overwhelm. Learning to embrace efficient cooking techniques, like using the Instant Pot and preparing meals in advance, has been a game-changer. It's not just about saving time; it's about freeing up mental space and energy to focus on what truly matters – my family and my own well-being.
This Instant Pot Bacon Chicken Ranch Baked Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of my commitment to creating delicious, healthy meals without sacrificing my precious time. It's a testament to the fact that you can have it all, even if it means embracing smart shortcuts and efficient cooking methods. So, ditch the complicated recipes and the hours spent in the kitchen. Try this casserole – I promise you won't be disappointed.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a little kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Add some greens: Stir in some wilted spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Customize the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorites.
- Meal prep friendly: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is perfect for busy weeknights or for meal prepping for the week ahead.
I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it brings to my family. Enjoy!
