Introduction
Welcome to my cozy kitchen, where we’re embracing the comfort of home-cooked meals! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole that is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This dish is a wonderful combination of tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that will warm your heart and fill your stomach!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cups potatoes, small-diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a spacious baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- While the oven is warming up, par-cook the diced potatoes in a pot of boiling water for about 8–10 minutes until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3–4 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, par-cooked potatoes, broccoli florets, and the sautéed onion and garlic. Pour in the heavy cream or milk, sour cream, paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well-blended.
- Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the mixture, creating a creamy base.
- Transfer the hearty mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese, sprinkling it generously over the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
- Once it’s done, pull it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving warm.
Notes or Tips
You can easily customize this casserole by including other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even substituting the chicken for turkey or a plant-based option for a different twist! For added texture, consider topping the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for a delightful crunch.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves basic cooking techniques such as par-cooking, sautéing, and baking. Par-cooking the potatoes ensures they are perfectly tender but not mushy, while sautéing the onions and garlic develops a rich flavor base for the casserole. Baking allows all the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a satisfying dish full of comforting flavors.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes very well! Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
There you have it—a warm, comforting Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole that is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Its creamy goodness and hearty ingredients make it perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Give it a try, gather your loved ones around the table, and savor every delicious bite. Happy cooking!