The Ultimate Comfort Food for Family Dinners
If you're searching for a satisfying, easy-to-make dinner packed with protein, vegetables, and creamy comfort, this baked potato chicken and broccoli casserole is exactly what you need. It combines hearty potatoes, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheese in a one-dish wonder that will become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Perfectly seasoned, loaded with textures, and bursting with flavor, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and easy to adapt for different tastes or dietary needs.
Why You'll Love This Casserole
This dish brings everything you love in one pan. It’s comforting, filling, and full of ingredients that your whole family will enjoy. Chicken provides a lean, protein-packed base. Broccoli adds crunch and color, while potatoes offer satisfying carbs and fiber. Top it all with creamy sauce and gooey cheese, and you’ve got a dinner worth repeating.
With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a flavorful homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this flavorful casserole:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen (steamed until just tender)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced potatoes and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and slightly crispy on the edges.
Set aside when cooked.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
While the potatoes are cooking, steam the broccoli.
If using fresh, steam until just fork-tender but still bright green—about 5–6 minutes.
If using frozen, cook according to package instructions.
Drain any excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.
Step 3: Cook the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
Whisk in milk and sour cream until smooth and heated through.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
Slowly mix in half the cheddar and half the mozzarella.
Stir until the cheese melts and forms a thick, creamy sauce.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with oil or non-stick spray.
Spread the cooked potatoes evenly as the first layer.
Add the chicken pieces on top of the potatoes.
Distribute the steamed broccoli over the chicken.
Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the top.
Sprinkle with remaining cheddar and mozzarella.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Cover the baking dish with foil.
Place in the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Yukon Gold potatoes work well for a buttery texture.
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for better meltability.
- Layer ingredients evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Optional Add-Ins to Customize Your Casserole
This recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some great ways to mix it up:
- Bacon crumbles: Add crispy bacon on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring earthy depth.
- Spinach: Mix in baby spinach for an iron boost.
- Caramelized onions: Add a subtle sweetness.
- Green onions or chives: Sprinkle fresh on top after baking for added zest.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can assemble this casserole up to a day ahead.
Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
When you're ready, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
This is a great meal prep option for busy families or anyone wanting to plan meals ahead.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This casserole stores beautifully and reheats without losing its flavor:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.
Add a splash of milk or water if it looks too dry.
Nutritional Breakdown
While this dish is indulgent, it also offers balance.
Here's a general overview per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 450–500
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
You can reduce fat and calories by using low-fat dairy, skipping extra cheese, or adding more vegetables.
What to Serve with This Casserole
While this is a complete meal on its own, it pairs well with lighter sides:
- Mixed greens with vinaigrette
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted asparagus
- Fresh fruit salad
- Buttered dinner rolls
Serve with iced tea or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
Why This Recipe Works for Everyone
This dish is reliable, adaptable, and always a hit.
It covers major food groups, so it’s balanced and nourishing.
Kids love the cheesy goodness, and adults appreciate the hearty, home-cooked feel.
You can double it for large gatherings or halve it for smaller families.
It’s also allergy-friendly. Just switch out the dairy, chicken, or potatoes as needed for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
Budget-Friendly and Pantry-Ready
This casserole doesn’t require fancy or expensive ingredients.
You can use pantry staples like potatoes, milk, and canned or leftover chicken.
Broccoli and cheese are easy to find year-round.
Making it from scratch is more affordable—and healthier—than ordering takeout or buying frozen meals.
Healthy Tweaks You Can Make
Trying to eat healthier? Here are a few small changes that can make a big impact:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
- Try cauliflower instead of white potatoes
- Use low-fat cheese or reduce the quantity
- Add more veggies like zucchini or kale
- Use skinless chicken breast for lean protein
These tweaks maintain flavor while lowering calories and increasing nutrition.
Perfect for Leftovers
This casserole tastes even better the next day.
The flavors have time to meld, and reheating brings back the creamy richness.
Cut it into squares and store in meal prep containers for easy lunches.
Add a quick salad and you’ve got a balanced meal in minutes.
Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
There’s something timeless about a warm, cheesy casserole.
This baked potato chicken and broccoli casserole combines comfort and nutrition in one dish.
It’s easy to make, easy to love, and even easier to share.