Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. This casserole combines tender potatoes, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s easy to prepare and full of delicious flavors. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are just tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli:
- Steam the broccoli florets until they are just tender, about 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave the broccoli with a splash of water in a covered microwave-safe dish for about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess water.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the cooked potatoes, diced chicken, and steamed broccoli to the bowl with the creamy sauce. Gently stir to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- Mix the Breadcrumbs and Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve the Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are just tender and not overcooked to prevent them from becoming mushy in the casserole.
- Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
Variations:
- Bacon Addition:
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Spicy Casserole:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version:
- Substitute the chicken with a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or additional vegetables such as carrots and bell peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. What can I serve with Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss.
Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender potatoes, juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole a try and enjoy a satisfying and comforting meal. Happy cooking!