If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings together tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and vibrant broccoli, you have to try this Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe. It’s a delicious medley of flavors and textures baked to perfection with gooey cheese and a touch of seasoning that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re feeding a family or want a dish that’s easy to prepare but feels special, this casserole covers all the bases with a perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating this wonderful casserole. Each item plays a crucial role in texture, flavor, or visual appeal, making this recipe straightforward but incredibly satisfying.
- Cooked chicken breast (2 cups): Tender, diced or shredded chicken forms the hearty protein base.
- Potatoes (3 cups, peeled and cubed): These add creaminess and bulk to every forkful after boiling to just the right tenderness.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Fresh or thawed broccoli brings vibrant color and a fresh crunch that balances the richness.
- Green peas (1 cup, optional): A sweet, pop-in texture that adds a subtle earthy sweetness.
- Small onion, finely chopped (1): A savory aromatics punch that deepens the flavor.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Garlic’s warmth and depth elevate the whole dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): Sharp, melty, and essential for that classic casserole gooeyness.
- Grated mozzarella cheese (0.5 cup): Adds stretch and a wonderful mild creaminess on top.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Creates that luscious, creamy binding texture.
- Sour cream (0.5 cup): Brings a tangy richness that balances the cheese and cream soup.
- Milk (0.5 cup): Helps achieve the perfect saucy consistency.
- Seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 0.5 teaspoon each): They layer subtle warmth and aroma throughout.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simply indispensable for enhancing all the flavors.
- Olive oil or butter (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing onions and garlic to bring out their sweetness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herby note and colorful garnish.
How to Make Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and has a nice golden crust once baked. This small prep sets you up for success right from the beginning.
Step 2: Perfect Your Potatoes
Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water for about 8 to 10 minutes just until they become tender but hold their shape. This step guarantees fluffy potatoes that won’t turn mushy when combined with the other ingredients in your Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Sauté the finely chopped onions until translucent and soft, around 3 to 4 minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute. This builds a flavorful foundation that infuses the whole casserole with savory depth and a wonderful aroma.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, toss together the cooked chicken, boiled potatoes, broccoli florets, optional green peas, and your sautéed onions and garlic. Add 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, cream of chicken soup, and all the seasonings — paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until every component is evenly coated and well combined, making sure each bite will be rich and harmonious.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Spread the filling evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella cheese over the top. This cheese layering is what will create that irresistible bubbly and golden crust that makes the casserole so inviting.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese on top turns a beautiful golden brown. For an even more decadent finish, feel free to broil for 2 to 3 minutes to get a crispy cheesy crust. This step is pure magic for your Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe!
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the dish set and enhances the melding of flavors. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens every mouthful.
How to Serve Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish here, adding not only a pop of vibrant green but also a subtle herbaceous flavor that complements the creamy, cheesy base. For an extra touch, a light sprinkle of paprika or a few cracked black pepper flakes on top just before serving makes the dish look as lovely as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This casserole is fairly hearty on its own, but pairing it with a simple mixed green salad or a tangy coleslaw balances the richness perfectly. A side of crusty bread or garlic rolls also works beautifully to help scoop up every last bit of the cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins can make for an elegant presentation, especially if you’re entertaining. Layer the casserole with extra cheese in the center for a molten surprise. You can also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking for added crunch and texture variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the casserole taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, usually 20 to 25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to revive the crispy cheese topping, just like fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well to avoid excess moisture that can make the casserole watery. Frozen broccoli works just as well and is super convenient.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas, tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein. Also, use a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken.
What’s the best cheese to use for this casserole?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic here for their perfect melt and flavor. Feel free to add a little Parmesan or Gruyere for an even more complex cheesy profile.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent dish for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure no hidden gluten in processed ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe is destined to become a favorite in your home. It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight but comforting and rich enough to serve at family gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and cheesy goodness creates a satisfying meal everyone will love. Don’t wait to try it out and make some delicious memories!
Print
Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. Featuring tender chicken, creamy potatoes, fresh broccoli, and a cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection, it’s an easy one-dish meal that combines wholesome ingredients with rich flavors. The casserole is topped with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and made creamy with sour cream and cream of chicken soup for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup green peas (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 0.5 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 0.5 cup milk
Seasonings and Oils
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prep dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Boil potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes into salted water and boil them for 8 to 10 minutes until they are just tender. Drain the water and set the potatoes aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, boiled potatoes, broccoli florets, optional green peas, sautéed onions and garlic, 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, cream of chicken soup, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup cheddar cheese and 0.5 cup grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. For an extra crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2 to 3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for the chicken breast.
- Frozen broccoli and peas work well; just thaw and drain excess water before using.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or reduce cheese quantities.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Make sure not to overcook the potatoes when boiling to avoid mushy casserole texture.
