Description
Hearty “Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole” combines comfort and nutrition in one satisfying dish. Creamy layers of tender chicken, roasted broccoli, and cheesy potato goodness invite you to savor a delicious meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 3 pounds chicken, cooked and chopped
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Vegetables and Starch:
- 3 pounds red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium-size broccoli crown, about 2–3 cups bite-size broccoli florets
Dairy and Seasonings:
- 2 cups shredded cheese, divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large pot for boiling red potatoes with salted water until they become fork-tender, approximately 15 minutes.
- Once potatoes are cooked, drain and return them to the pot. Incorporate butter, sour cream, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then thoroughly mash until achieving a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Simultaneously prepare the broccoli by steaming or blanching florets until they reach a tender texture, which typically takes 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the velvety mashed potatoes, diced chicken, tender broccoli florets, and approximately half of the shredded cheese. Mix ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and carefully transfer the mixed casserole contents into it. Generously sprinkle the remaining cheese across the surface and garnish with crumbled bacon pieces.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, monitoring until the cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly appearance.
- Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a crisp side salad or preferred vegetable accompaniment for a complete meal.
Notes
- Choose waxy red potatoes for a creamy, smooth texture that holds together beautifully when mashed.
- Use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken to save time and add extra flavor to the casserole.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli – keep it slightly crisp to maintain its vibrant green color and nutritional value.
- Mix different cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a more complex and rich flavor profile.
- Swap potatoes with cauliflower mash for a lighter, low-carb version of the casserole.
- Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for easy meal prep.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg