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If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you must try this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole Recipe. It combines tender roasted potatoes, juicy chicken, and bright green broccoli all mixed into a creamy, cheesy filling that’s baked until bubbly and golden. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it a perfect family dinner or a special treat to share with friends. This casserole is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is actually super simple to whip up, bridging convenience and homemade goodness effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but crucial for building the layers of flavor and texture in this dish. Each component plays a vital role—russet potatoes provide that hearty base with their fluffy insides, while the blend of cheeses adds gooey richness. The chicken brings protein and a bit of savory depth, and the broccoli injects freshness and vibrant color that balances everything beautifully.
- 2 large russet potatoes: Ideal for baking because their starchy texture becomes wonderfully fluffy inside.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps the chicken cook evenly without sticking.
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and diced: Lean protein that absorbs flavors and adds hearty bite.
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed: Brightens the dish with a healthy crunch and beautiful green hues.
- 1 cup sour cream: Gives creaminess and a tangy touch that complements the cheese perfectly.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Boosts moisture and binding power, making the filling luscious and rich.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty cheese for comforting gooeyness.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch and mild flavor to balance the cheddar.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle savory warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savoriness with a touch of sweetness and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for highlighting every flavor in the casserole.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a hint of heat and spice to keep things lively.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp finish that rounds out the cheese blend.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: For a fresh, slightly pungent topping that wakes up the dish.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). After washing the russet potatoes thoroughly, pierce them a few times with a fork to let steam escape during baking. Place these on a lined baking sheet and bake for about an hour until they’re fork-tender. This careful baking ensures the potatoes are perfectly soft inside while their skins stay sturdy to hold the filling later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook whole chicken breasts until the centers have no pink left—roughly 7 to 8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Let the chicken cool slightly before dicing it into bite-sized pieces. This step guarantees juicy, tender chicken chunks that blend nicely into the casserole.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
Next, steam the broccoli florets until just tender but still vibrantly green, about 3 to 4 minutes. Whether you use a steamer basket or microwave, avoid overcooking to maintain that perfect pop of color and a bit of crunch that balances the creamy filling.
Step 4: Scoop and Mix the Potato Filling
Once the potatoes are out of the oven and cooled for ten minutes, slice them lengthwise and carefully scoop out the insides into a bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato on each skin for sturdiness. Mash the scooped potato to your liking—smooth or slightly chunky works perfectly. To this, add sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well until you have a smooth, flavorful mixture.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Broccoli
Fold the diced chicken and steamed broccoli gently into the cheesy potato mixture, making sure everything is evenly distributed. This combination fills the casserole with layers of texture and color, making each spoonful interesting and satisfying.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Spoon the hearty filling back into the hollowed potato skins, dividing it evenly. Place them on your baking sheet with enough space between each. Top with a sprinkle of chopped green onions to add a fresh burst of flavor and color. Pop the whole assembly back into the oven for another 20 minutes until the tops are golden and bubbling—making the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole Recipe irresistibly inviting.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a final touch, sprinkle extra chopped green onions or a handful of fresh parsley over the casserole just before serving. A small drizzle of sour cream or a dusting of smoked paprika can also add a subtle flair. These garnishes lift the dish visually and enhance the layers of flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp garden salads, roasted vegetables, or even a light tomato soup. Its rich, creamy nature benefits from lighter, crunchy complements that balance your meal while keeping it wholesome and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or hollowed-out potato skins for an elegant touch. Alternatively, layer the filling in a shallow casserole dish for a family-style presentation that allows everyone to scoop generous helpings. No matter how you plate it, this dish promises warmth and comfort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making it a great next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Wrap tightly or use freezer-safe containers to keep it fresh for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. To keep the top from drying, cover loosely with foil during the first half of reheating. Microwave works fine for quick meals, but the oven ensures the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well to avoid excess moisture that might make the casserole soggy. Fresh broccoli does give a brighter color and crunch, but frozen works fine in a pinch.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply skip the chicken or replace it with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. You might want to boost seasoning slightly to keep the flavors vibrant.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours before baking, then cover and refrigerate until ready to cook. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining guests.
What other cheeses can I use if I don’t have cheddar or mozzarella?
Feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, Colby, or even gouda can add delicious meltiness. Just choose cheeses that melt well and suit your taste buds.
Is it okay to use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes will add a lovely natural sweetness and creamy texture, but the overall taste profile will be different. If you like that contrast, go for it! Just monitor baking time as sweet potatoes can cook faster.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole Recipe is a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Its comforting layers of creamy potatoes, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli all smothered in cheesy goodness make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and find out why it’s quickly become one of my personal favorite go-to dishes for happy family dinners or cozy nights in.
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