Loaded Chicken and Bacon Casserole with Pineapple and Corn

This hearty Loaded Chicken and Bacon Casserole is a flavorful medley of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet notes of pineapple and corn. With vibrant vegetables and a creamy mayonnaise dressing, it’s a dish that satisfies both savory and sweet cravings. Perfect for a comforting family dinner!

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • Bacon: 250 g (8.8 oz), chopped
  • Potatoes: 800 g (1.75 lbs), peeled and cubed
  • Water: To boil potatoes
  • Olive oil: 3 tbsp, divided
  • Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Mushrooms: 2 large, sliced
  • Salt: To taste
  • Black pepper: To taste
  • Bell pepper: 1/2, diced
  • Boneless chicken shank meat: 300 g (10.5 oz), diced
  • Sweet paprika: 1 tsp
  • Carrots: 2, peeled and diced
  • Sweet corn: 1 can (200 g), drained
  • Canned pineapple: 1/2 can (100 g), diced
  • Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
  • Boiling water: Enough to blanch onion
  • Olives: A handful, sliced
  • Cooked pork: 100 g (3.5 oz), diced
  • Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp
  • Additional salt: To taste

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.

Cook the Vegetables and Chicken:
4. Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook until golden.
5. Stir in the diced bell pepper and carrots, cooking for 3–4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, sweet paprika, and black pepper, and cook until browned.

Combine Ingredients:
7. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, sautéed chicken and vegetables, crispy bacon, sweet corn, pineapple, and cooked pork. Mix well.

Prepare the Dressing:
8. Pour boiling water over the finely chopped small onion and let sit for 5 minutes. Drain and add to the casserole mixture.
9. Add sliced olives and mix everything together with mayonnaise. Adjust salt to taste.

Assemble and Bake:
10. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
11. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

Serve:
12. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
  • Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

Cooking Tips

  • Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your preference for creaminess.
  • For extra crunch, top the casserole with breadcrumbs or grated cheese before baking.
  • Substitute chicken shank with chicken breast or thighs if preferred.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Chicken: A lean source of protein.
  • Pineapple and Corn: Add natural sweetness and essential vitamins.
  • Vegetables: Provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Dietary Information

  • Gluten-free if using gluten-free mayonnaise.
  • Contains dairy (mayonnaise).

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 5 g

Storage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Combines savory and sweet flavors for a unique and satisfying dish.
  • Packed with protein, vegetables, and delicious textures.
  • Versatile enough to serve as a main or a side.
  • Easy to make with everyday ingredients.

Conclusion
This Loaded Chicken and Bacon Casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and touch of sweetness, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. Try it today for a delicious and satisfying meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
    Yes, fresh pineapple works perfectly; just dice it into small pieces.
  2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
  3. What can I use instead of bacon?
    Turkey bacon or pancetta are great substitutes.
  4. Can I skip the pork?
    Yes, you can omit it or replace it with more chicken or vegetables.
  5. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
    Use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative.
  6. Can I freeze this casserole?
    Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
  7. What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
    Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as alternatives.
  8. How do I prevent the casserole from being dry?
    Ensure the mayonnaise mixture coats all ingredients well, and cover with foil during baking if needed.
  9. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Zucchini, green beans, or peas are excellent additions.
  10. What can I serve this with?
    Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed rice for a complete meal.