Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole

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Golden, cheesy, and brimming with comforting goodness, the Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole is a cozy meal that brings together tender chunks of chicken, hearty potatoes, and vibrant broccoli florets in a creamy, flavor-packed sauce. The top is perfectly crisped and bubbling with melted cheese, creating that irresistible crust that makes every forkful an experience worth savoring.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly weeknight dinner or an easy make-ahead dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole fits the bill. It’s the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and creamy indulgence – all baked in one dish, making clean-up as easy as the cooking. Warm, nourishing, and deeply satisfying, this is the kind of meal that brings people back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole

• It’s a one-dish wonder—protein, veggies, and carbs all in one place.
• Perfect for batch cooking or weekly meal prep.
• Freezer-friendly for easy reheat meals later.
• Family-approved comfort food that pleases even picky eaters.
• Can be adapted with different veggies or proteins depending on what’s in your fridge.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the casserole magic, make sure you have the essential kitchen tools:

• Large Skillet or Saucepan: To pre-cook your chicken and sauté the ingredients evenly.
• Mixing Bowls: Ideal for combining your filling and seasonings.
• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: A sharp knife is crucial for cleanly chopping the potatoes, broccoli, and chicken.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision in ingredients leads to consistent flavor.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for holding everything together and ensuring even baking.
• Aluminum Foil (optional): To prevent the top from browning too quickly.

Each tool serves a specific purpose to streamline your prep and ensure your casserole comes out bubbling and beautiful.

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Preparation Tips

Cut your potatoes into small, evenly sized cubes so they cook through at the same rate as the other ingredients. For added flavor, season each component lightly before combining them—especially the chicken and potatoes. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can save time without sacrificing flavor. Lastly, don’t skimp on the cheese topping—it creates that golden crust everyone craves.

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Ingredients for this Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole

• 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, for added color and texture)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sauteing)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of oil or non-stick spray. This ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.

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Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for 8-10 minutes until they are just tender. Drain and set aside. This parboiling step ensures the potatoes cook fully in the oven without turning mushy.

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Step 3: Saute the Aromatics

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This builds a rich, savory base flavor.

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Step 4: Combine the Base Mix

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, parboiled potatoes, broccoli, peas, sauteed onions and garlic, 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, and cream of chicken soup. Season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

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Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. This creates that irresistible cheesy crust when baked.

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Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If needed, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to achieve extra browning on top. Keep an eye to avoid burning.

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Step 7: Rest & Garnish

Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and the flavors to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

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Notes

For a deeper flavor, roast the broccoli and potatoes beforehand with a light drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This adds a caramelized touch and reduces moisture, keeping your casserole from becoming watery. You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and checking that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Want a lighter version? Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and use low-fat cheese.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the potatoes: If you boil the potatoes too long, they’ll turn mushy in the oven.
• Using raw broccoli: If it’s too large or not pre-cooked, it may stay tough. Steam or blanch lightly beforehand.
• Adding too much liquid: Stick to the recommended measurements to avoid a soupy texture.
• Skipping the rest time: Letting the casserole sit after baking allows it to set and keeps it from falling apart when served.
• Uneven chopping: Make sure all pieces are a similar size for even cooking and texture.

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Storage Instructions

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For freezing, tightly wrap the casserole (uncooked or baked) and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving size: 1 generous portion

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Cholesterol: 75mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the casserole.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with canned chickpeas or cubed tofu and use cream of mushroom soup instead.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese, plant-based milk, and a dairy-free soup alternative. There are many great options available today.

What other vegetables can I add?

Cauliflower, carrots, bell peppers, or spinach are all great additions.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet twist and pair well with the creamy and cheesy texture.

How do I avoid a watery casserole?

Make sure ingredients like broccoli and cooked chicken are well-drained. Also, don’t add extra liquid beyond what’s listed.

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Conclusion

Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole is the perfect example of a comforting meal that doesn’t require a ton of fuss. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutrition thanks to its balance of protein, vegetables, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or looking for an easy yet satisfying dinner idea, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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