Easy Cheesy Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is a comforting dish that seamlessly combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy potatoes, all smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this casserole is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 60-65 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 400
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
Why Make This Easy Cheesy Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
This casserole is a fantastic choice for busy families, as it brings together wholesome ingredients in one dish, making dinner preparation a breeze. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters. With minimal prep and a simple cooking process, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
Follow these straightforward steps to create a delightful casserole that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, broccoli, hash browns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are mixed together thoroughly and the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Cooking
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. If you love a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This adds a delightful texture that contrasts with the creaminess of the casserole.
Step 4: Finishing
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness. For a heartwarming family dinner, consider adding some sliced fruit or dessert for a complete meal.
How to Store Easy Cheesy Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If you want to keep it longer, say goodbye to waste by freezing individual servings in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Cheesy Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
- For added flavor, use leftover rotisserie chicken or seasoned chicken breast.
- Feel free to substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower, depending on your preferences.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- If you love extra crunch, try mixing in some crushed crackers or tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for a can of chickpeas or extra vegetables to make a delicious vegetarian casserole.
- Southwestern Style: Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes for a spicy southwestern take. Spice it up with jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Creamy Ranch Casserole: Mix in a packet of ranch dressing mix for an extra kick of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh broccoli works great. Just briefly steam or blanch it to ensure it’s tender before mixing it into the casserole.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To lighten it up, use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking for a homemade version or a substitute, mix ½ cup of chicken broth with ½ cup of milk and add flour for thickness.
Can I add more cheese?
Of course! Feel free to sprinkle additional cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Conclusion
Easy Cheesy Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a blend of flavors that warms the heart and brings family together. With its simple preparation and comforting taste, it’s a dish you’re sure to come back to again and again. We encourage you to give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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Easy Cheesy Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A comforting dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy potatoes, smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, broccoli, hash browns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, use leftover rotisserie chicken or seasoned chicken breast. Experiment with different vegetables and cheeses for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
