Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal for dinner tonight? This Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is your answer. Combining tender potatoes, succulent chicken, crisp broccoli, and crispy bacon, all topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is sure to please the whole family. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Introduction
The baked potato chicken and broccoli casserole is the ultimate comfort food that strikes a balance between being hearty, healthy, and downright delicious. It combines all the best things—fluffy potatoes, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and broccoli for that added green punch—then wraps them up in a cheesy, creamy sauce. With just an hour from start to finish, this casserole will soon become a weeknight favorite in your household.
Ingredients Overview
Here’s everything you’ll need to get started:
- 3 pounds red potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 4 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ – 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 medium-sized broccoli crown (about 2-3 cups bite-size florets)
- 3 cups cooked chicken (chopped)
- 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (divided)
These basic ingredients come together to create a delicious one-dish meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Ready to dive in? Let’s break it down step by step.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preparing the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch square baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Meanwhile, place your red potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork-tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the hot pot.
This extra step ensures your potatoes stay fluffy. If you have a gas stove, place the pot back on the lowest heat setting to let any remaining water evaporate before mashing.
2. Steaming or Roasting the Broccoli
While your potatoes are boiling, steam or roast the broccoli. For steaming, place the broccoli in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes until it is tender but still slightly crisp. If you prefer a roasted touch, toss the florets with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for 10-15 minutes. The key is to ensure the broccoli retains its texture for the final bake.
3. Cooking the Bacon
While the broccoli is cooking, you can also take this time to cook the bacon. You’ll want to cook it until it’s crispy, then crumble it into small bits. Set it aside to mix into the casserole later.
4. Mixing the Casserole Ingredients
With your ingredients prepped, now comes the fun part—combining everything. Mash the drained potatoes in the pot using a potato masher. Add the butter, sour cream, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until everything is well combined and the potatoes are creamy.
Now, add the cooked broccoli, chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, and one cup of shredded cheese. Stir well to mix all the ingredients evenly. Once mixed, transfer everything into your prepared baking dish.
Baking the Casserole
Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Place it in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the casserole is heated through. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and bubbly.
Why This Casserole Is Perfect for Family Dinners
This dish ticks all the boxes for a family dinner—it’s hearty, filling, and filled with ingredients everyone loves. Potatoes provide comfort, chicken adds protein, broccoli sneaks in some veggies, and bacon offers a salty crunch. Plus, it’s cheesy! Who doesn’t love that?
Tips for Making the Perfect Casserole
- Use Yukon Gold Potatoes if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded for better melting.
- Add a splash of milk if your mashed potatoes seem too dry.
- Top with crispy fried onions for an added crunch!
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Swap the chicken for turkey or ham for a different flavor profile.
- Try cauliflower instead of broccoli for a lower-carb option.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier taste with extra protein.
- Experiment with cheeses: Gouda, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar could add a new twist.
Making It Ahead and Storing Leftovers
You can make this casserole a day ahead! Simply prep the ingredients, assemble the casserole, and store it in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it into the oven.
Leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, and enjoy!
How to Make This Dish Healthier
To make this casserole healthier:
- Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon.
- Add more veggies: Try adding spinach or carrots for more nutrients.
- Opt for a reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Ideas
This casserole is already a meal in itself, but if you want to serve it alongside something:
- A light green salad with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this cheesy, hearty dish.
- For a lighter option, try some steamed asparagus or green beans on the side.
Conclusion
This Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion—weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping. With its hearty ingredients and delicious flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy this warm, comforting casserole, knowing that every bite is packed with love and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of red potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a different flavor but still work well in this casserole.
3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The cheese on top should be melted and bubbly, and the casserole should be heated through.
4. What other veggies can I add to this casserole?
You can add cauliflower, spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini for extra veggies.
5. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.