Discover the ultimate comfort food for your family with this incredible Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole. This easy-to-make dish is packed with tender chunks of succulent chicken, vibrant fresh broccoli florets, and soft, creamy potatoes, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy, and utterly delicious sauce. Perfectly baked to golden perfection in your oven, this hearty meal is not only a fantastic solution for busy weeknights but also a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an accessible recipe for cooks of all skill levels, delivering warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
The beauty of this chicken broccoli potato casserole lies in its harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients. You simply can’t go wrong with the classic combination of savory chicken, earthy potatoes, and nutritious broccoli, all brought together by a generous blanket of melted cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, the cheese creates an irresistible topping that seals in all the incredible flavors. It’s a truly satisfying dish that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor, making it a staple in any busy household.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole
This Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a dish, designed for ease, flavor, and universal appeal. Here’s why it’s destined to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection:
- A Weeknight Dinner Hero: Life gets hectic, and cooking shouldn’t add to the stress. This casserole is incredibly straightforward to prepare, allowing you to whip up a wholesome, delicious meal even on the busiest evenings. It’s a fantastic “go-to” recipe that simplifies meal planning without compromising on taste.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Unlike lighter fare, this casserole is a complete meal on its own. Loaded with protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the potatoes, and essential nutrients from the broccoli, it’s exceptionally filling and will keep your family satisfied without the need for multiple side dishes.
- Kid-Friendly Perfection: Getting kids to eat their vegetables can be a challenge, but the creamy, cheesy sauce in this casserole acts as a delicious disguise. Even the pickiest eaters will find themselves enjoying the tender chicken and broccoli, making it a rare dish that pleases everyone at the table.
- Effortless Make-Ahead Option: Preparing meals in advance is a game-changer, and this casserole shines in that department. You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and simply pop it into the oven when you’re ready to bake, making dinner prep a breeze.
- Customizable to Your Liking: While the core recipe is fantastic, it’s also highly adaptable. Easily swap out cheeses, add different vegetables, or incorporate various seasonings to tailor it to your family’s preferences, ensuring it never gets boring.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Featuring common and affordable ingredients, this casserole is an economical way to feed a crowd or enjoy several meals throughout the week without breaking the bank.
- Delicious Leftovers: If there’s any left (and that’s a big “if”), this casserole tastes even better the next day! It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunchboxes or another quick dinner.
This cheesy chicken casserole offers the perfect way to get your entire family to enjoy a homemade meal bursting with the goodness of broccoli, potatoes, chicken, and rich cheese. Its comforting flavors and hearty texture guarantee that kids and adults alike will be eagerly anticipating this dish again and again.
Ingredients for Your Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole
Crafting this delightful casserole requires a selection of readily available ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Below is a detailed overview of what you’ll need. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this page.
Ingredient Notes & Variations
Understanding your ingredients and their potential substitutions can greatly enhance your cooking experience and allow for creative variations. Here are some detailed notes and suggestions for each component:
- Chicken: For this recipe, I typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes. They cook quickly and evenly, remaining tender in the casserole. However, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor and slightly moister texture. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken, such as shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken, works wonderfully. Just be mindful that pre-cooked chicken may require a slightly shorter baking time to prevent it from drying out.
- Potatoes: Almost any type of potato will work beautifully in this casserole. I often opt for russet potatoes due to their fluffy texture when cooked, but red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or even sweet potatoes (for a unique twist) are excellent choices. Ensure they are cut into uniform, bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly. While I prefer to peel them for a smoother texture, leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and a rustic appeal.
- Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key to the vibrant color and slight crunch in this dish. Cut them into florets that are roughly 1-2 inches in size to ensure they become tender but not mushy during baking. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli florets can be used; just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which could make the casserole watery.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This classic pantry staple forms the creamy base of our sauce. You can easily find it at any grocery store. For a healthier or more controlled ingredient option, consider making a homemade cream of chicken soup from scratch. There are many simple recipes available online that use flour, butter, chicken broth, and milk to create a similar creamy consistency and flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic cloves offer the best pungent flavor that beautifully complements the other ingredients. However, if fresh garlic isn’t on hand, you can substitute with garlic powder. As a general guideline, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder is equivalent to one medium clove of fresh garlic.
- Chicken Broth and Sour Cream: These two ingredients are crucial for achieving that lusciously creamy and flavorful sauce. The chicken broth adds depth, while sour cream contributes a tangy richness. For a lighter alternative, you could use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth can be a suitable substitute.
- Olive Oil: Used for coating the chicken, potatoes, and broccoli, helping them cook and preventing sticking, while also adding a subtle flavor. Any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil would also work.
- Oregano: Dried oregano adds an earthy, aromatic note to the casserole. If you don’t have oregano, Italian seasoning is an excellent substitute as it often contains oregano along with other complementary herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary. Explore other oregano substitutes if you’re looking for different flavor profiles.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients. Always season to taste, adding more if needed after the first mix.
- Cheddar Cheese: Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese provide the ultimate cheesy goodness and a beautiful golden crust. Feel free to experiment with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, mozzarella, or a cheddar blend for different flavor profiles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing this Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole is incredibly simple, making it a joy to cook. Follow these straightforward steps to create a delicious and comforting meal. Detailed measurements and specific timing can be found in the recipe card below.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). As the oven warms up, take a 13×9 inch casserole dish and lightly spray it with cooking spray or grease it with a little butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving. Set the prepared dish aside for later.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your cubed chicken, bite-sized potato chunks, and fresh broccoli florets. Add the minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring all the chicken, potatoes, and broccoli are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Using clean hands or gloves can make this mixing process much more effective.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In the same large mixing bowl with your seasoned chicken and vegetables, pour in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix everything together really well. The goal is to distribute the creamy sauce evenly throughout the chicken and vegetable mixture, ensuring every component is coated for maximum flavor and moisture during baking.
- Assemble and Initial Bake: Transfer the entire mixture from the mixing bowl into your prepared 13×9 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer. Once the mixture is spread, sprinkle the two cups of shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. This initial covering helps to steam the potatoes and chicken, ensuring they cook through evenly and remain tender. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Final Bake to Golden Perfection: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil from the casserole dish. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes. During this stage, the cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust, and the top will brown to your liking. The chicken and potatoes should be fully cooked and tender. To check for doneness, pierce a potato chunk with a fork – it should be easily tender.
Amira’s Tips for a Perfect Casserole
Achieving casserole perfection is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Potato Preparation: While leaving the potato skins on is an option for added fiber and a rustic look, I recommend peeling the potatoes before adding them to the mixture for a smoother texture that blends seamlessly with the creamy sauce. Ensure they are cut into consistent, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Healthier Soup Alternative: For those looking to reduce sodium or control ingredients, consider using our Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute recipe. Making your own cream of chicken soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the same creamy base with a homemade touch and often fewer artificial ingredients.
- Add a Touch of Heat: If you enjoy a bit of warmth and spice, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top of the casserole before serving. A scattering of freshly chopped green onions (scallions) not only adds a burst of color but also a mild, fresh onion flavor that brightens the dish.
- Mixing with Hands: Don’t shy away from using your clean hands or gloved hands to mix all the ingredients in the large bowl. This ensures that the chicken, potatoes, and broccoli are thoroughly coated with the olive oil, seasonings, and creamy sauce, guaranteeing every bite is flavorful.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Dish: Make sure to use a 13×9 inch casserole dish as specified. Overcrowding a smaller dish can lead to uneven cooking and a longer baking time. A properly sized dish allows for good air circulation and even heat distribution.
- Check for Doneness: Always verify that the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the potatoes are tender before removing the casserole from the oven. A quick check with a meat thermometer and a fork will confirm perfection.
Delicious Casserole Variations
This Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ways to switch things up:
- Bacon Bliss: For an extra layer of savory flavor and delightful crunch, sprinkle some cooked and crumbled bacon bits over the top of the casserole along with the cheese before baking. The smoky notes of bacon perfectly complement the creamy chicken and vegetables.
- Cheese Exploration: While cheddar is a classic, don’t hesitate to experiment with different varieties of shredded cheese. Monterey Jack offers a milder, meltier quality, while mozzarella provides an incredible stretch. For a sharper flavor, consider a blend of cheddar and Gruyere, or even a touch of Parmesan for a nutty finish.
- Potato Swaps: If you’re looking for a shortcut or a different texture, consider using scalloped boxed potatoes (prepared according to package directions, then added to the casserole) or even cooked leftover mashed potatoes for an extra creamy base.
- Ranch Flavor Boost: Elevate the flavor profile by mixing in a packet of dry ranch seasoning with the creamy soup mixture. This adds a zesty, herbaceous kick that’s incredibly addictive and makes the casserole even more kid-friendly.
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: This recipe is an excellent way to utilize leftover or store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred or dice the cooked chicken and mix it in with the other ingredients. If using cooked chicken, reduce the initial covered baking time slightly (e.g., to 15-20 minutes) to prevent the chicken from drying out, focusing more on ensuring the potatoes are tender.
- Vegetable Medley: While broccoli is a star, you can easily add other vegetables. Diced carrots, peas, corn, or even thinly sliced mushrooms can be incorporated into the mix. Just ensure they are cut small enough to cook through in the casserole’s baking time.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crispy texture, mix a half cup of breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before the final uncovered baking. This creates a delightful golden-brown crunch.
- Spice it Up: Besides red pepper flakes, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a warm, savory note, or a dash of onion powder along with the garlic for a deeper aromatic foundation.
Storage Solutions
This Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole makes fantastic leftovers, ensuring you have delicious meals ready for days. Proper storage is key to maintaining its flavor and freshness:
- Refrigeration: Allow any leftover casserole to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes surprisingly well! Once cooled, you can freeze individual portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. To freeze the entire casserole, bake it as directed, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Label with the date. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven. If reheating from the refrigerator, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. If the top needs a little crispness, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes. For individual servings, the microwave works quickly, but the oven will maintain a better texture.
Make-Ahead Magic
Preparing this chicken broccoli potato casserole ahead of time is a brilliant strategy for busy schedules. It saves valuable time on cooking day without sacrificing flavor or quality. Here’s how you can get a head start:
- Component Prep: The simplest way to prepare ahead is to get your individual components ready. Cube the chicken, cut the fresh broccoli into florets, and peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. This cuts down on chopping time significantly.
- Assemble and Refrigerate: For ultimate convenience, you can fully assemble the casserole a day in advance. Mix all the chicken, potatoes, broccoli, seasonings, and creamy sauce together in your casserole dish, top with cheese, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store the assembled, unbaked casserole in your refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature, then follow the baking instructions, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
- Freezing Unbaked Casserole: If you want to prepare even further in advance, you can assemble and freeze the unbaked casserole. Use a freezer-safe casserole dish. Mix all ingredients, spread into the dish, and top with cheese. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake, thaw the casserole completely in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake as directed in the recipe, potentially adding 15-20 minutes to the total baking time to ensure everything cooks through properly.
What to Serve With Your Casserole
While this Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole is a complete and satisfying meal all on its own, pairing it with a simple side can elevate the dining experience and add extra freshness or indulgence.
- Fresh Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing side salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the rich and creamy casserole. The fresh greens and tangy dressing provide a palate cleanser that complements the hearty main dish beautifully.
- Crusty Garlic Bread: Is there anything better than warm, buttery garlic bread for soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce? It’s a classic pairing for a reason, adding an extra layer of comfort and flavor.
- Extra Veggies: If you want to boost your vegetable intake, a simple steamed green vegetable like green beans, asparagus, or a medley of roasted root vegetables would be a great addition. Their natural flavors and textures will complement the casserole without overpowering it.
- Light Soup: A light, clear broth-based soup or a simple tomato soup can make for a more elaborate meal, offering a different texture and warmth before the main event.
- Sweet Endings: To conclude this hearty meal on a sweet note, a dessert that offers a lovely contrast is ideal. Consider a light fruit tart, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or perhaps this decadent Red Velvet Bundt Cake for a truly special finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
While you absolutely can use pre-cooked chicken (such as leftover roasted chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken) to save time, it’s generally recommended to use uncooked chicken breast or thighs in this particular recipe. Uncooked chicken will cook perfectly alongside the potatoes and fresh broccoli, absorbing the flavors of the creamy sauce and remaining exceptionally tender. If you opt for already cooked chicken, there’s a higher chance it could become overcooked and dry during the casserole’s baking time, as the primary cooking time is set for the raw chicken and potatoes to soften.
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets as a substitute for fresh. However, it’s crucial to thaw the frozen broccoli completely before adding it to the casserole mixture. Once thawed, pat the broccoli very dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is important because extra water can make your casserole watery and dilute the creamy sauce. The texture might be slightly softer than fresh broccoli, but it will still be delicious.
Almost any type of potato can be used, but starchy potatoes like Russet or Idaho tend to get very tender and absorb flavors well, while waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold hold their shape a bit more. I typically peel them for a smoother texture in the finished casserole, which is often preferred, especially by children. However, leaving the skins on adds extra nutrients and a rustic touch if that’s what you prefer. Just be sure to scrub them clean if leaving the skins on, and cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
To make this casserole gluten-free, the main consideration is the cream of chicken soup. Most canned cream of chicken soups contain wheat flour as a thickener. You can either purchase a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup, or easily make a homemade gluten-free version using gluten-free flour (like rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend) as a thickener for your béchamel sauce, combined with chicken broth and milk/cream.
Several factors can lead to a watery casserole. First, ensure you thoroughly pat dry any thawed frozen broccoli to remove excess ice. Second, avoid adding too much extra liquid beyond what the recipe calls for. Third, make sure your casserole is baked for the full duration specified, as longer baking times allow the sauce to thicken properly. Finally, letting the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven allows the sauce to set and absorb back into the ingredients, preventing it from being runny when served.
Related Recipes to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting flavors of this chicken and broccoli potato casserole, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few more delightful recipes from our kitchen that you might enjoy, perfect for expanding your repertoire of easy and satisfying family meals:
- Mashed Potatoes Chicken Casserole: This family-favorite comfort food takes classic mashed potatoes to an entirely new level. It’s a wonderfully delectable dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with tender chicken and a savory sauce, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive side dish for holiday gatherings.
- Chicken Broccoli Ziti: If you’re a fan of comforting broccoli casseroles and pasta, this creamy and utterly delicious Chicken Broccoli Ziti is a must-try. It combines al dente ziti pasta with chicken and tender broccoli in a rich, velvety sauce for a truly soul-satisfying meal.
- Easy 30-Minute Chicken Mushroom Casserole: For those busy weeknights when you need something quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful, this “skinny” chicken mushroom casserole is the answer. It’s creamy and delicious, proving you don’t have to sacrifice taste to enjoy a lighter, wholesome meal that’s ready in a flash.
- Chicken Fiesta Casserole: Craving a cheesy, creamy Tex-Mex inspired dish? This vibrant Chicken Fiesta Casserole is packed with bold Mexican flavors, making it a colorful and lively meal. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that brings a festive twist to your table.
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Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole
dinner, Main Course
American
Halal
5
45
50
8
servings
Amira
Equipment
- 1 13×9 casserole dish
- 1 large bowl
Ingredients
-
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into cubes -
1 pound potatoes cut into bite sized chunks -
1 head broccoli cut into 2-3 bites -
2 garlic cloves minced -
2 Tablespoons olive oil -
1 teaspoon dry oregano -
Salt and pepper to taste -
1 cream of chicken soup 10.5 ounce can -
½ cup sour cream -
¼ cup chicken broth -
2 cups cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 13×9 casserole dish with cooking oil and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix chicken, potatoes, broccoli, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper until evenly coated.
- Pour cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth over the mixture and mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Spread the entire mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, sprinkle cheddar cheese generously on top, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover the casserole and continue to bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and browned to your liking, and the chicken and potatoes are cooked through and tender.
Notes
- You can use another variety of shredded cheese if you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or a Colby-Jack blend.
- For a smoother texture, I recommend peeling the potatoes before cutting them into chunks and adding them to the mixture.
- Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy for dietary information.
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