Baked Potato Chicken

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Intensity: Medium
Servings: 6

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty, family-friendly comfort meal that combines protein, veggies, and creamy goodness in every bite, then this Baked Potato Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is just what you need. This dish brings together the wholesome flavors of tender chicken breast, fluffy baked potatoes, crisp broccoli florets, and a cheesy, creamy sauce—all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or preparing a crowd-pleaser for dinner guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed

• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)

For topping:

• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl

• Medium saucepan or pot (for boiling potatoes)

• 9×13 inch casserole dish

• Foil (optional, for covering during baking)

• Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Peel and dice the russet potatoes into small cubes (about 1/2 inch thick). Boil them in salted water for about 8–10 minutes until they are just fork-tender. You don’t want them to be too soft because they’ll cook further in the oven. Drain and set aside.

If you are using fresh broccoli, blanch it by boiling for 2 minutes and then shocking it in cold water to keep its color and crunch. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry.

Shred or cube your cooked chicken breast. Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe too.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Sour cream

• Mayonnaise

• Cream of chicken soup

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Smoked paprika

• Salt, pepper, and optional herbs

Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.

Add the shredded chicken, cooked potatoes, and broccoli into the mixture. Gently fold everything together to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top.

In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole for a crispy, golden topping.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

If the topping begins to brown too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to settle and makes it easier to slice into portions.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

Make It Healthier

• Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for added protein and less fat.

• Use low-fat cheese and mayonnaise.

• Try sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a nutritious twist.

Add More Veggies

• Toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots.

• Spinach or kale can be added for more greens.

Make It Spicy

• Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

• Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.

Storage & Freezing

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until heated through, about 45–60 minutes.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Approximate values based on 6 servings

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugars: 3g

• Cholesterol: 95mg

• Sodium: 670mg

• Calcium: 180mg

• Iron: 1.8mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.