The aroma of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace of gooey cheese and tender chicken. Picture this: a golden-brown casserole bubbling away, topped with crispy broccoli that adds just the right crunch. honey garlic chicken dish It’s a dish that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart and soul. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Spring Rolls recipe recipe.
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my family gathered around the table, eyes gleaming with anticipation as they dove into layers of flavor. This casserole is perfect for chilly nights when you want comfort food that feels like a hug from Grandma. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Healthy Lentil Curry recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole makes weeknight dinners easy and stress-free
- Its rich flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike
- You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins
- Plus, it’s visually stunning with its colorful layers and gooey cheese on top
Sharing this casserole at family gatherings always brings smiles and satisfied bellies; who knew comfort could taste this good?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust according to your crowd size.
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose vibrant green florets for maximum crunch and flavor; frozen works too in a pinch.
- Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are perfect for baking; peel them for easier eating. braised potatoes side dish.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for an extra kick of flavor that melts beautifully.
- Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to use low-fat for a lighter version.
- Garlic Powder: This little gem boosts flavor without needing fresh garlic; it’s a pantry staple!
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these essentials to enhance all the wonderful flavors in your casserole.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal for layering all those tasty ingredients together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your ingredients. The anticipation will build as you create this deliciousness.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced chicken until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The aromas will start to entice you.
Boil the Potatoes: Peel and chop russet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes, then drain them, letting their steam escape.
Prepare the Broccoli: While everything else cooks, steam or blanch your broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp; they should keep some crunch for texture.
Create the Sauce Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, potatoes, steamed broccoli, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything is coated in creamy goodness.
Layer It Up!: In your greased baking dish, layer half of the potato mixture followed by half of the cheese. Repeat these layers one more time before finishing off with leftover cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown; let it cool slightly before serving to avoid any molten cheese disasters!
Enjoy your Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter and warmth shared around the table. chicken alfredo puffs.
You Must Know
- This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole is comfort food at its finest
- The creamy cheese mingles with tender chicken and crunchy broccoli, creating a delightful balance of flavors
- It’s an easy dish to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, then mix in cooked chicken and steamed broccoli before layering with cheese. Baking it all together ensures a creamy, cheesy embrace around every bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out one pan chicken and veggies like carrots or bell peppers. You can also experiment with various cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy goodness returns.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate your Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole, remember to season each layer well
- Using fresh herbs can enhance flavor significantly
- For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking for a delightful texture contrast
This casserole has been a family favorite since my kids first tried it; their smiles were priceless as they devoured every bite!
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great! Just thaw and drain excess water before adding it.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is ideal due to its melting qualities and rich flavor profile.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
It can last up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese layered over fluffy baked potatoes, creating a warm hug for your taste buds. With its gooey cheese topping and crunchy vegetable layers, this casserole brings smiles to the dinner table while being easy to prepare. Dive into this delicious recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced chicken until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat.
- Peel and chop russet potatoes into chunks; boil in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain.
- Steam or blanch broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, drained potatoes, steamed broccoli, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix gently.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potato mixture followed by half of the cheese; repeat layers and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
