There’s something irresistibly comforting about a dish that simmers in a slow cooker, effortlessly filling your home with appetizing aromas. My journey to develop these Slow Cooker Loaded Potatoes with Chicken came at a time when I craved a hearty meal but wanted to keep things simple and nutritious. Picture this: tender pieces of chicken embracing buttery potatoes and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy butternut squash “cheese” sauce that feels indulgent yet guilt-free.

As we transition to cooler evenings, this recipe brings a touch of warmth to the dinner table—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with loved ones. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and adheres to Paleo and Whole30 guidelines, so no one needs to miss out on hearty comfort food anymore! Whether you’re looking for a new favorite for the family or a dish to impress friends, these loaded potatoes offer irresistible flavor with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this wholesome delight that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love These Loaded Potatoes With Chicken

Comforting Warmth: As the slow cooker works its magic, your home fills with the warm, inviting aroma of this hearty dish.
Nutrient Richness: Enjoy a healthy twist with butternut squash providing a creamy “cheese” flavor while adding vitamins without dairy.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, everyone can savor a hearty meal while adhering to gluten-free, dairy-free, and Paleo diets.
Simplified Cooking: Just layer everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work—no fuss, no stress!
Versatile Options: Swap out the chicken for a meat-free alternative or switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand for endless variations.
Boost your meal prep game by checking out our guide on slow cooker recipes that will elevate all your weeknight dinners!

Loaded Potatoes With Chicken Ingredients

Discover the delightful ingredients you’ll need to create these tasty Loaded Potatoes with Chicken!

For the Butternut Squash “Cheese” Sauce

Light Olive Oil – Adds fat for cooking and enhances flavor; substitute with avocado oil if preferred.
Pre-Cut Butternut Squash – This base for the “cheese” sauce gives creaminess; use whole squash to save money, though it requires extra prep time.
Salt – A must for flavor enhancement; adjust based on dietary needs.
Black Pepper – Offers a mild spiciness; freshly cracked varieties amplify flavor.
Nutritional Yeast – Delivers cheesy notes without dairy; can be omitted if unavailable.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy kick; select a paleo-friendly brand if adhering to specific diets.
Chicken Broth – Adds delicious depth; vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.

For the Main Dish

Bacon – Provides crunch and flavor; omit for vegetarian versions or replace with coconut bacon.
Red Potatoes – The backbone of the dish; keep the skin on for added nutrients or opt for Yukon Gold if you prefer.
Broccoli – Enhances color, nutrients, and texture; swap with cauliflower for variety.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The primary protein source; thighs add a richer flavor or use leftover cooked chicken if available.
Dairy Free Ranch Dressing – Adds a creamy tang; for convenience, store-bought versions work as long as they meet dietary needs.
Green Onions – These are optional but provide a burst of fresh flavor and color as a garnish.

Now that you have the ingredients, it’s time to bring this delicious comfort food to life!

How to Make Loaded Potatoes With Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Begin by preparing the Butternut Squash “Cheese” Sauce following the linked recipe. Doubling the sauce will enhance the creaminess of your dish.
Bake bacon by lining a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and continue to bake for another 4-6 minutes until crispy. Once done, chop and set aside.
Layer the base by spreading the Butternut Squash “Cheese” Sauce evenly across the bottom of a large crockpot, setting a cozy foundation for the flavors to build upon.
Add diced red potatoes on top of the sauce. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper. Next, toss in the broccoli florets and diced chicken atop the potatoes.
Season your chicken and vegetables with the remaining salt and pepper. Drizzle ranch dressing over the top, providing that creamy tang everyone loves.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours. After this, stir the ingredients to coat them well with the sauce, then cover again and cook for an additional hour. In the end, ensure the potatoes are tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve warm, topping with the crispy bacon, sliced green onions, and an optional drizzle of additional ranch dressing for a burst of flavor!

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Loaded Potatoes With Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with these fun and delicious twists.

Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of red ones for a sweeter flavor that’s still satisfying.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with an assortment of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, kale, and bell peppers for a veggie feast.
Turkey Upgrade: Substitute chicken with ground turkey or diced turkey breast for a lean protein alternative.
Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: For some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to wake up your taste buds.
Creamy Coconut: Replace the butternut squash with coconut cream for a richer, tropical flavor that complements the chicken well.
Cheesy Indulgence: Sprinkle some dairy-free cheese on top before serving for an extra melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Extra Crunch: Add in crispy chickpeas or nuts as a topping for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softness of the potatoes.

With these modifications, your Loaded Potatoes with Chicken will always be an exciting, flavorful experience!

Storage Tips for Loaded Potatoes With Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cool before sealing to retain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Portion servings for easier reheating later.

Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to revive moisture and flavor.

Freshness Check: Always smell and inspect the loaded potatoes with chicken before consuming leftovers; if you notice any off odor or unusual texture, it’s best to discard them.

Make Ahead Options

These Loaded Potatoes with Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts striving for convenience during busy weeknights! You can prepare the Butternut Squash “Cheese” Sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the potatoes, broccoli, and chicken, placing them in a separate container; this will save you precious time, making your dinner assembly a breeze. When it’s time to cook, just layer the sauce and prepped ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on HIGH for 3 hours. This ensures every bite remains just as delicious while allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones.

What to Serve with Loaded Potatoes With Chicken?

Elevate your meal experience by pairing these creamy, hearty potatoes with amazing side dishes and beverages that complement their rich flavors.

Fresh Side Salad: A crisp, colorful salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette will balance the dish’s richness and add freshness.
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic and a sprinkle of lemon zest provide a bright, crunchy contrast that’s simply delightful.
Steamed Broccoli: Additional broccoli, lightly steamed, enhances the texture and nutrition while keeping the meal cohesive and colorful.
Savory Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread can soak up the delicious flavors of the butternut squash sauce, adding a touch of Southern comfort.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with a dairy-free dressing will provide a refreshing crunch and balance the creamy richness of the dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing glass of sparkling water with fresh lemon slices will cleanse the palate and keep the meal feeling light.
Red Wine: A glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, will complement the savory flavors while bringing an elegance to your dinner table.

When planning your meal, think about colors, textures, and flavors to create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will love!

Expert Tips for Loaded Potatoes With Chicken

Cut Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking; this guarantees tenderness and reduces cooking time.
Stir for Uniformity: Stir the mixture halfway through cooking for better sauce distribution, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Quick Prep: Use pre-cut butternut squash to speed up the cooking process; frozen squash works too, just remember to thaw it beforehand.
Season Wisely: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before cooking to perfectly season your Loaded Potatoes With Chicken.
Cook Time Caution: Avoid overcooking; check for tenderness of potatoes and chicken doneness to achieve the perfect texture without mushiness.

Loaded Potatoes With Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing potatoes, look for firm ones free of dark spots or sprouting. For broccoli, vibrant green florets should be your focus, avoiding any with yellowing. If opting for fresh butternut squash, select one that feels heavy for its size and has a hard skin, indicating ripeness.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
For sure! Store leftover Loaded Potatoes with Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Loaded Potatoes with Chicken?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and enjoy within 3 months for the best flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, let thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

What should I do if my potatoes are still hard after cooking?
Very! If your potatoes aren’t tender after the initial cooking time, that’s no problem. Simply cover and cook an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour on HIGH. Be sure to check periodically until they’re fork-tender, as cooking times may vary based on the size of the potato pieces.

Are there any dietary considerations for allergies or pets?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and suitable for Paleo and Whole30 diets. Always check labels on store-bought items like ranch dressing and bacon to ensure they meet your specific dietary needs. If you have pets, avoid feeding them any ingredients with seasonings or sauces, especially those containing garlic or onion, which can be harmful.

Can I modify this recipe for other dietary needs?
Very much so! If you need a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with more vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also substitute the garlic and onion in ranch dressing with suitable alternatives to keep it compliant with dietary restrictions while still enjoying the delicious flavors of Slow Cooker Loaded Potatoes with Chicken.