Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Introduction

When I first tried Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, it quickly became one of my go-to dishes for family dinners and casual gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, fresh broccoli, and a cheesy golden crust is the perfect comfort food. This casserole is simple to prepare but so satisfying, with layers of flavor and texture that please everyone at the table. It’s a one-dish wonder that has become a staple in our weekly meal planning.

My family absolutely loves this casserole, and it’s always a hit when we have guests over. The kids especially enjoy it because of the cheesy, creamy sauce and the crispy topping. It’s also versatile, making it perfect for meal prepping or potlucks. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole always delivers a delicious and hearty meal.

Ingredients

For this Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup milk (or skim milk for a lighter option)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter

These ingredients come together to create a rich, comforting casserole that’s filling enough to serve as the main dish. The combination of potatoes, chicken, and broccoli is not only nutritious but also incredibly flavorful when paired with the creamy sauce and cheesy topping.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Potatoes:
   In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
3. Blanch the Broccoli:
   In the same pot, bring fresh water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
   Add the cooked potatoes, diced chicken, and blanched broccoli to the bowl with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the ingredients evenly with the creamy sauce.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
8. Bake the Casserole:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Serve:
   Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for each serving, assuming the recipe makes 6 servings:

• Serving Size: 1/6th of the recipe
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

These values are approximate and can vary depending on ingredient substitutions and serving sizes. This casserole is a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs, making it a filling and hearty meal.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

The prep time for this casserole is quick, and it only takes about 25 minutes to bake. The ingredients come together easily, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or for when you’re in need of a comforting dish without too much hassle.

How to Serve

Here are a few ideas for serving Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:

• As a Main Course: Serve the casserole as a main dish with a side of fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For Potlucks and Gatherings: This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare in advance and always a crowd-pleaser.
• For Meal Prep: Portion the casserole into individual servings for meal prepping. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated easily in the microwave.
• As a Comforting Dinner: Serve this dish on its own for a hearty, comforting dinner that will fill everyone up.

Additional Tips

1. Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and opt for skim milk instead of whole milk.
2. Add Extra Veggies: You can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.
3. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker option, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken. This saves time without sacrificing flavor.
4. Use Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can use other cheese varieties like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cauliflower to create a hearty vegetarian version of this casserole.
• Cheesy Garlic Version: Add minced garlic to the sauce for a garlicky twist, and top with extra cheese for a cheesier casserole.
• Spicy Version: Add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to give the casserole a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Fresh Salad: Pair this casserole with a refreshing side salad, like a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette, to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of crispy garlic bread to make the meal even more indulgent.
• For a Festive Touch: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add color and a pop of freshness to the dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the next day when you’re ready to eat.
2. Can I substitute the chicken?
   Yes, you can substitute the chicken with ground turkey or even cooked ham for a different flavor.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
   Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole.
4. Can I add more cheese?
   Yes! You can add more cheese for a richer, cheesier casserole.
5. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
   Use dairy-free milk, sour cream, and cheese alternatives to make this dish dairy-free.
6. Can I use different potatoes?
   While russet potatoes work best, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes or other types of potatoes if preferred.
7. How do I keep the casserole from being too dry?
   Ensure the potatoes are well-coated with the sauce before baking. If you find the casserole too dry, you can add a little extra milk to the sauce.
8. Can I make this casserole in a smaller dish?
   Yes, you can make this casserole in a smaller baking dish, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
9. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
   This casserole will last for up to 4 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.
10. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheese types like mozzarella, gouda, or Swiss cheese.

Conclusion

Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a perfect example of

comforting, hearty food that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat. With a creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy potatoes, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Print