Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

Name: Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 3 cups potatoes, cubed and boiled until tender; 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets; 1 cup sour cream; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp butter, melted

Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is a delightful dish that combines hearty ingredients into a comforting meal. This delicious casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your family’s cravings. Not only is it creamy and cheesy, but it also incorporates nutritious elements like chicken, potatoes, and broccoli.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to prepare Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole, but the most compelling one is its versatility and ease of preparation. This dish is a one-pot wonder that can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh broccoli makes it a balanced and comforting meal that everyone will love.

Moreover, this casserole can easily be customized to fit different dietary needs. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs for those avoiding gluten or substitute the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian alternative if desired. The list of ingredients is straightforward, letting even beginner cooks whip up a fantastic dish without any stress.

How to Make Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

Creating this scrumptious casserole is simpler than you might think. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to pop into the oven. Here’s how to make Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole:

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
3 cups potatoes, cubed and boiled until tender
2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Stir in the shredded chicken, boiled potatoes, broccoli florets, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Ensure everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the casserole.
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
Bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips for Success with Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

Be sure to boil the potatoes until they are just tender; overcooking can make them mushy in the casserole.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, making your prep even faster.
For a creamier texture, add more sour cream or cheese to your mixture.
If you want a bit of crunch, toast the breadcrumbs lightly before sprinkling them on top.
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, for extra nutrition.
To enhance the flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or a touch of paprika for a bit of warmth.

Flavor Variations for Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

Cheesy Ranch Version: Mix in a packet of ranch seasoning with the sauce for a zesty flavor boost.
Buffalo Chicken Version: Add some buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with cooked lentils and use vegetable broth in place of the cream of chicken soup for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Italian Style: Incorporate diced tomatoes and Italian herbs like basil and oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
Loaded Baked Potato Style: Top your casserole with crispy bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing touch. You might also consider serving it with crusty bread or rolls on the side for dipping into the creamy goodness.

For an even heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a warm bowl of soup. This casserole is filling enough that it can stand alone as a main dish, but these sides round out the meal perfectly.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

To store any leftover casserole, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil after it has cooled to room temperature. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. For freezing, portion out the casserole into airtight containers or freezer bags after it has cooled completely. This dish can be frozen for up to three months.

To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you could microwave individual portions until hot.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Value |
|———-|——-|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 700mg |

FAQ About Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

Can I use other vegetables in the casserole?

Absolutely! One of the great things about this casserole is its versatility. You can add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, or even peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the tenderness of the added veggies.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup or replace it with cream of mushroom soup. For a healthier option, a mixture of chicken broth, heavy cream, and a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken can also work.

Can I prepare the casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead of time. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it into the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

This casserole is not gluten-free as written due to the cream of chicken soup and breadcrumbs. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring that any soup used is also labeled gluten-free.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using dairy-free cheeses, a plant-based sour cream alternative, and an appropriate cream of chicken substitute made with non-dairy ingredients. Just be sure to check labels to ensure all components are dairy-free.

Final Thoughts

Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings comfort to the dinner table. Its creamy texture, cheesy top, and delightful flavors make it a family favorite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate nutritious vegetables into your diet while enjoying a hearty dish. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this casserole delivers on taste and ease of preparation. Enjoy this comforting classic that’s sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!