Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a delightful, hearty dish that combines tender potatoes, succulent chicken, and fresh broccoli, all brought together with creamy, cheesy goodness. This casserole is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. It’s easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The combination of textures and flavors, from the crisp bacon to the creamy potatoes, makes this dish a standout. Whether you’re looking for a new dinner idea or a dish to impress guests, this casserole is a great choice.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ – 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 medium-sized broccoli crown, about 2-3 cups of bite-size broccoli florets
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheese, divided (use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch square baking dish with butter or a light coating of cooking spray.
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
- Prepare the Broccoli and Bacon: While the potatoes are cooking, steam or lightly roast the broccoli until it is just tender. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble or chop it. Set aside.
- Mash the Potatoes: With the potatoes back in the warm pot (but with the heat turned off), mash them thoroughly. Add the butter, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Combine All Ingredients: Stir in the steamed broccoli, chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, and half of the cheese. Once everything is evenly mixed, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Casserole: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serving: Serve your Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole hot from the oven. Enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser. This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a crusty piece of bread or garlic toast.
Notes:
- Potato Variations: You can use different types of potatoes if you prefer, such as Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Each type will give a slightly different texture to the dish.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives a great flavor, but you can also try using Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
- Chicken: Leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can quickly cook some chicken breasts or thighs.
- Vegetables: If you want to add more vegetables, consider including some diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even some spinach. Just make sure any additional vegetables are cooked to a tender state before adding to the casserole.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, let it come to room temperature and then bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze the casserole? A: Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers? A: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with turkey, ham, or even ground beef. Just ensure the meat is cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole? A: This casserole is quite filling on its own, but it pairs nicely with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of garlic bread or a warm dinner roll is also a great addition.
Q: How can I make this casserole healthier? A: To make this casserole healthier, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, reduce the amount of cheese, and use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Additionally, you can increase the amount of broccoli and add other vegetables like carrots or spinach.
Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and bacon. Consider adding more vegetables or using a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for added protein.
Q: What if I don’t have kosher salt? A: If you don’t have kosher salt, you can use regular table salt. However, keep in mind that table salt is finer and more compact, so you may need to use slightly less. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Q: Can I add other spices to this casserole? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other spices and herbs to suit your taste. Some good options include thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Q: How can I make the casserole creamier? A: For a creamier casserole, you can add a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese to the mashed potatoes. Stir it in with the sour cream and butter for an extra rich and creamy texture.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole to prevent it from becoming watery.
Q: How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator? A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat as mentioned before to enjoy the delicious flavors again.
Q: Can I use a different type of dish for baking? A: If you don’t have a 10-inch square baking dish, you can use a similar-sized dish, such as a 9×13-inch baking dish. Just keep an eye on the casserole while baking, as the cooking time may vary slightly.
Conclusion: Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings together the best of comfort food flavors. With its creamy, cheesy, and hearty ingredients, it’s a guaranteed hit for any meal. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to adapt it to your tastes and dietary preferences easily. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious casserole with your loved ones!