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When it comes to easy dinner recipes that satisfy the whole family, a hearty casserole is always a winning choice. This Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole brings together tender chicken, bite-sized potatoes, and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce that feels like classic comfort food. It is a convenient, oven-baked dish perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or simple family gatherings.
Designed for home cooks who want flavor without complication, this casserole delivers a creamy texture, balanced nutrition, and a comforting taste that appeals to all ages. With affordable ingredients and minimal prep, it is a budget-friendly recipe that also fits high-protein dinner needs.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish offers more than just great flavor. Here’s why it deserves a permanent place in your recipe rotation:
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- Simple prep with everyday pantry ingredients
- A complete one-pan meal combining protein, vegetables, and starch
- Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned
- Ideal for families looking for filling dinners
- Great for meal prepping and reheating
- Customizable for different tastes and dietary needs
Whether you are cooking for a busy weekday or planning comfort food for the weekend, this casserole makes a reliable and delicious meal.
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Ingredients Breakdown
• Chicken – Cooked shredded or diced chicken adds protein and makes prep quick; rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
• Potatoes – Small-diced potatoes hold their shape while baking and add hearty comfort; Yukon Gold or Russet work best.
• Broccoli Florets – Bring color, crunch, and nutrients; fresh or thawed frozen broccoli both work.
• Onion & Garlic – Add savory depth and richness to the casserole’s flavor base.
• Sour Cream – Gives the sauce creamy tang and blends smoothly with the cheese and chicken.
• Heavy Cream or Milk – Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and velvety; milk offers a lighter creamy option.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melts into a bubbly, golden topping; sharp cheddar gives the most flavor.
• Butter & Seasonings – Butter helps create a smooth sauce while paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper boost flavor.
• Fresh Herbs – Chives or parsley add freshness and a pop of color on top.
Tips and Tricks
To make your casserole turn out perfectly every time, keep these suggestions in mind:
- Dice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Par-cook potatoes for 5 minutes if you prefer a softer texture.
- Mix the cheese into the casserole or leave it on top depending on how melty you want the finish.
- For richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so it sets properly.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is incredibly flexible. Try these variations to suit different tastes:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- Swap broccoli for cauliflower, green beans, or mixed vegetables.
- Use Monterey Jack or mozzarella in place of cheddar for a different cheese profile.
- Replace chicken with turkey, ground beef, or vegetarian chicken substitutes.
- Add spices such as Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or onion powder for a bolder flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve this casserole with simple, complementary sides such as:
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed vegetables
- Roasted carrots or asparagus
It also pairs well with iced tea, sparkling water, or light white wines for those who enjoy more refined dinner pairings.
Storage Instructions
To keep your leftovers fresh:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.
- Microwave reheating works well for single servings.
- Freeze leftovers (without herbs added) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well to prevent excess moisture.
Do I need to cook the potatoes first?
Not required, but par-cooking helps if you want them extra soft.
Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I make it lighter?
Use milk instead of cream and substitute half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, potatoes, broccoli, onion, and minced garlic.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add sour cream, heavy cream or milk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake 40–45 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil 2–3 minutes if desired for crispiness.
- Remove from oven, rest briefly, then garnish with chives or parsley before serving.
Notes
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