The Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud from McAlister's Deli features tender chipotle-seasoned chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese atop a fluffy baked potato, topped with fresh green onions and a drizzle of smoky chipotle sauce for a bold, savory flavor.
Equipments
- Oven or microwave (for baking potatoes)
- Baking tray or microwave-safe plate
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Skillet or frying pan (for bacon)
- Tongs or spatula
- Mixing bowl (optional, for seasoning chicken)
- Saucepan or small pot (for chipotle sauce, if homemade)
- Cheese grater (if using block cheddar)
- Spoon or ladle (for drizzling sauce)
- Serving plate or potato holder
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken breast
- 2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions
- 1/3 cup chipotle sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their fluffy interior, which perfectly complements the bold chipotle-seasoned chicken breast. Use cooked chicken breast seasoned with chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to replicate the authentic flavor. Crisp bacon slices should be cooked in a skillet for the best texture and added atop the potato along with melted cheddar cheese. Fresh green onions provide a sharp, fresh contrast, while the smoky chipotle sauce, either store-bought or homemade, delivers the signature spicy kick. Your homemade Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud from McAlister's Deli copycat menu will capture the bold, savory flavors of the original dish.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare microwave for potatoes.
- Wash and dry russet potatoes.
- Pierce potatoes several times with a fork.
- Bake potatoes in oven for 45-60 minutes, or microwave on high for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- While potatoes cook, season cooked chicken breast with chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Chop or shred seasoned chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook bacon in skillet or frying pan over medium heat until crispy.
- Drain bacon on paper towels and crumble or chop into pieces.
- Grate cheddar cheese if using block cheese.
- Thinly slice green onions.
- Once potatoes are cooked, carefully slice each potato lengthwise and gently push ends to fluff.
- Top each potato with seasoned chicken, followed by crumbled bacon.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the toppings.
- Return potatoes to oven (or microwave) for 2-3 minutes to melt cheese, if desired.
- Remove potatoes and drizzle chipotle sauce on top.
- Garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately on plate or potato holder.
Substitution
The Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud from McAlister's Deli copycat menu combines smoky chipotle-seasoned chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese on a fluffy baked russet potato, finished with fresh green onions and smoky chipotle sauce. If you can't find chipotle chili powder, substitute with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a similar smoky heat. When pressed for time, microwaving the potatoes is a good alternative to baking, but baking yields a fluffier texture. You can swap bacon for turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a lighter or meat-free option. For homemade chipotle sauce, adjust the spice level based on your preference to keep your dish perfectly balanced.
Tips
Ensure to pierce the russet potatoes thoroughly with a fork before baking or microwaving to allow steam to escape and avoid bursting. Season your cooked chicken evenly with chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for consistent, bold flavor. When cooking bacon, use medium heat to get crispy pieces without burning, and always drain excess grease on paper towels. Your melted cheddar cheese will blend best if you add it just before finishing, allowing a perfect melt without drying out the potato or toppings.
Nutritions
The Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud from McAlister's Deli combines protein-rich chicken breast and crispy bacon, offering a substantial source of lean and savory protein. The russet potato base provides complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and sustained energy. Cheddar cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, while the chipotle seasoning contributes antioxidants and a smoky flavor without excess calories. Your meal balances macronutrients and essential vitamins, making it flavorful and nourishing.
Storage
Store any leftover Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. To reheat, use an oven preheated to 350degF (175degC) or a microwave, ensuring the potato is heated evenly and the cheese melts without drying out. You can preserve the texture and flavor by adding a small amount of chipotle sauce after reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chipotle chili powder for smoked cayenne pepper to adjust the heat level while maintaining a smoky flavor. Use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon for a leaner option without sacrificing the crispy texture. For a different cheese profile, pepper jack adds a spicy kick and creamy melt that complements the chipotle seasoning. Consider roasting the chicken with the spices instead of seasoning pre-cooked breast to deepen the smoky, charred flavors in your Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud.
Allergies
The Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and potential soy or preservatives in the store-bought chipotle sauce. You should be cautious if you have allergies to chicken, bacon, or spices like paprika and chili powder, which could trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Always check ingredient labels and consult with restaurant staff to ensure your meal is safe to eat.
Why this recipe?
The Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud at McAlister's Deli combines smoky chipotle-seasoned chicken and crispy bacon atop a fluffy baked potato, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. Its blend of spicy, savory, and creamy elements satisfies a variety of taste preferences and offers a comforting, protein-rich option. People appreciate this menu item for its balance of bold flavors and satisfying textures, making it a standout choice. Trying to make the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this delicious dish at home, customizing the spice level and ingredients to fit your personal taste.