Easy Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings warmth, heartiness, and a touch of cheesy comfort to your dinner table, this Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole is your new go-to. Combining tender chicken, fluffy baked potato goodness, and vibrant broccoli in one wholesome casserole, this recipe is simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding the whole family on busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just dipping your toes into casseroles, this dish delivers that satisfying, home-cooked feeling with effortless ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-dish wonder: Everything cooks together in a single casserole for minimal cleanup and maximum convenience.
• Loaded with nutrients: Chicken provides protein, broccoli delivers fiber and vitamins, and potatoes add hearty carbs to keep you fueled.
• Cheesy and creamy: A rich cheese sauce binds all ingredients into a luscious, comforting meal everyone will love.
• Versatile and satisfying: Easily adaptable for picky eaters or dietary needs while remaining deeply satisfying.
• Time saver: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for quick dinners without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole relies on simple, familiar ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and flavor—from the tender chicken to the creamy cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked broccoli.

• Chicken breast: Boneless and skinless for lean protein that stays juicy when baked.
• Baked potatoes: Use fluffy, cooked potatoes as the starchy base for a smooth, comforting texture.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, they add color, crunch, and a healthy dose of greens.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it brings that classic rich flavor every casserole needs.
• Sour cream: Adds creaminess and tanginess to enhance the sauce.
• Milk: Helps create a smooth, velvety cheese sauce without heaviness.
• Butter and flour: Combined to make a roux, the foundation for the creamy cheese sauce.
• Garlic and onion powder: For subtle, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten the flavors.
• Optional breadcrumbs: To add a golden, crispy topping if desired.

Variations for Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole

One of the best parts about this Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to make it dairy-free, add extra veggies, or spice things up, here are some fun ideas to tailor it just for your tastes.

• Dairy-free swap: Use dairy-free cheese and replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative for a creamy, lactose-free version.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the casserole a subtle heat.
• Different cheese blends: Try mixing mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for varied cheesy textures and flavors.
• Use sweet potatoes: For a twist on the starch base, substitute regular baked potatoes with sweet potatoes for added sweetness and vitamin A.

How to Make Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

Start by cooking and shredding or dicing the chicken breasts. Steam or blanch the broccoli until it’s just tender to keep its vibrant color and crunch without overcooking. These steps lay the foundation for a perfectly balanced casserole.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in milk until thickened, then add cheddar cheese and sour cream, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. This sauce is the luscious glue that ties all the ingredients together.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

Combine the shredded chicken, cooked broccoli, and diced baked potatoes in a large bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated. This is where all the flavors start to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. For an extra touch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly around the edges.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set and make scooping easier. This step also helps the flavors marry beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole

• Use day-old baked potatoes: They hold up better and won’t turn mushy during baking.
• Don’t overcook broccoli: Slightly undercooked florets keep their texture and color after baking.
• Shred the chicken finely: For even distribution and every bite to be packed with protein.
• Make the cheese sauce slowly: To avoid lumps, add milk gradually and whisk constantly during thickening.
• Customize topping: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or fried onions for different textures.

How to Serve Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and fresh aroma that brightens the casserole’s richness. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper on top also adds subtle spice and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This casserole can stand alone as a hearty meal but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or sliced tomatoes to provide a refreshing contrast. For extra comfort, serve alongside warm bread rolls or garlic toast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, perfect for dinner parties or meal prepping. Alternatively, top with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy, luxurious finish that guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making for delicious next-day meals.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water beforehand to avoid sogginess in the casserole.

What type of cheese works best in this casserole?

Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for its flavor and meltability, but you can mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for added creaminess and a slight kick.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour in the sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely for the topping.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Definitely. Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth for added flavor in the sauce.

How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

Use reduced-fat cheese, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, and choose skinless chicken breast to keep the casserole lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Potato Chicken Broccoli Casserole is truly a lifesaver for anyone wanting a comforting, nourishing, and straightforward meal. It’s the perfect blend of cheesy indulgence and wholesome ingredients, all baked together to create a crowd-pleasing dish your family will ask for again and again. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a delicious, cozy dinner made with love.

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