Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole: A Hearty Comfort Food Recipe

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish combines the richness of bacon, the freshness of asparagus, and the heartiness of potatoes and chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 3 cups diced potatoes (approximately 1/2-inch cubes)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup shredded strong cheddar cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large pan over medium heat, fry the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. In the same pan, sauté the diced onion until tender, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Increase heat to medium-high, add chicken breasts, and season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and slice into strips.
5. In the same pan, add diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
6. Layer half of the potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with asparagus, bacon, and chicken strips.
7. In a bowl, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme. Pour over the ingredients in the baking dish.
8. Cover and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Variations & Tips

• For a vegetarian version, replace bacon and chicken with canned white beans or chickpeas.
• Add oregano or rosemary for a flavor twist.
• Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top for extra crunch.
• Assemble ahead of time, refrigerate, and add 10-15 minutes to baking time when ready to cook.

This Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for home cooks of all skill levels. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!