Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about a hearty casserole, especially one that brings together baked potatoes, tender chicken, and vibrant green broccoli. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! The Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the perfect comfort food, invoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. With its creamy textures and rich flavors, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. It appeals to all ages, making it a foolproof option for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend feast. Make it now, and your family will thank you!
Are you ready for a cozy night in?
Picture this: It’s a chilly evening, and the aroma of a bubbling casserole wafts through your kitchen. Are you craving a meal that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart? Does the thought of gooey melted cheese and hearty potatoes bring a smile to your face? This Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is bound to become your go-to dish for all those cold nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy Prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up quickly, making it perfect for a busy weekday dinner.
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Healthy Options: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from broccoli, this casserole offers a delicious balance of flavor and nutrition.
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Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or potlucks.
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Versatility: Feel free to customize it—add in your favorite veggies or try different cheese blends to suit your taste.
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Comfort Food Classic: This casserole brings a sense of nostalgia, making every bite a reminder of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Imagine peeling those large, starchy potatoes—each slice revealing the white flesh within. Tossing the diced potatoes in olive oil until they’re glossy and shimmering brings pure joy. As you season them with salt and pepper, you can already feel the excitement building for the flavors to come. And the smell of cooked chicken mingling with buttery goodness while you sauté it transforms your kitchen into a fragrant haven. Let’s not forget the bright green broccoli florets, which not only add color to this dish but also nutrients that make this casserole a balanced meal.
Timing
This Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is all about finding that sweet spot between fast and indulgent. If you’re in a rush, you can have it ready and on the table in less than an hour. However, let it sit for an extra moment in the oven to achieve a golden crust and bubbling cheese, transforming it into a luxurious experience to savor as you take that first bite.
Step-by-Step
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Set the stage for the delicious dish about to unfold. -
In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.
Feel the potatoes soften under your fingertips as you mix—it’s a tactile experience! -
Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
Watch them transform into crispy morsels—this is what comfort food dreams are made of! -
While the potatoes are roasting, steam or boil the broccoli florets until just tender, about 4–5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Feel the freshness of the vibrant green veggies, which add a pop of color and health benefits. -
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the shredded or diced chicken, stirring occasionally until heated through.
As the chicken warms, it absorbs that velvety butter, enhancing its flavor. -
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese.
The creamy mixture will be the glue that holds this delightful dish together! -
In a large casserole dish, layer the roasted potatoes, followed by the cooked chicken and broccoli.
Build your masterpiece slowly, making sure that each layer is evenly spread. -
Pour the sour cream mixture over the top and gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly in the dish.
The magic happens here as everything melds together. -
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
This is the glorious crown that will bubble and brown beautifully in the oven. -
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The anticipation should be building as you catch whiffs of the irresistible aroma wafting from the oven. -
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
This short wait is crucial for letting the flavors marry! -
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Just a sprinkle for that extra pop of color!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this decadent casserole packs in approximately 480 calories. While comfort food can sometimes feel indulgent, this dish balances flavor and nutrition beautifully. Treat yourself occasionally—it’s all about that liberation of guilt when savoring a well-made meal.
Healthier Alternatives
Looking for ways to lighten this dish? Consider using:
- Low-fat sour cream: Offers the same creamy texture with fewer calories.
- Almond or oat milk: Perfect dairy-free options that still keep the essence of the creamy mixture.
- Chicken breast or tenderloin: Leaner cuts can reduce the overall fat content without compromising flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Craving something extra? Pair this casserole with a fresh side salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for some zest. Or, for those special occasions, indulge in dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream afterward. This savory dish paves the way for a sweet ending, creating the perfect balance!
Common Mistakes
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure you achieve casserole perfection:
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole; you want it bubbly, not burnt.
- Texture issues: Be cautious with the broccoli—overcooking can lead to mushy veggies.
- Messy layers: Ensure that your layers are even; a well-structured casserole creates a beautiful presentation.
Storing Tips
Leftovers? You’re in luck!
- Freezing Portions: Allow it to cool completely before transferring individual servings into airtight containers, making it easy to grab for lunch or a quick dinner later.
- Reheating Instructions: For best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if time is of the essence.
Tempting you to bake it ASAP
This Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor. Each bite offers layers of texture and taste that are bound to make your taste buds dance with delight. The blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty ingredients creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also deeply comforting. Make it tonight, and embrace the nostalgia and love that comes with every forkful.
FAQs
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Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe. -
Can I substitute different vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like green beans, bell peppers, or corn. -
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Sure! Substitute the chicken with more vegetables or a meat alternative. -
How do I store the casserole leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. -
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it, and bake when you’re ready!
The Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is calling your name—don’t resist the urge!
Print
Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting casserole with baked potatoes, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, perfect for family gatherings and cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
- While the potatoes are roasting, steam or boil the broccoli florets until just tender, about 4–5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the shredded or diced chicken, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- In a large casserole dish, layer the roasted potatoes, followed by the cooked chicken and broccoli.
- Pour the sour cream mixture over the top and gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheese blends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
