Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Are you ready to indulge in a dish that brings together the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli? Our Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is an irresistible combination of hearty ingredients, topped off with savory bacon and melted cheese. Whether you’re a fan of these classic flavors or simply looking for a satisfying meal to please the family, this casserole is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a delightful medley of textures and flavors. If you adore the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes, the wholesome taste of broccoli, and the savory kick of bacon and cheese, you’ll find this dish absolutely irresistible. Even those who aren’t fans of broccoli might discover a newfound appreciation for it in this recipe. Plus, it’s perfect for using up leftover chicken, making it both convenient and delicious.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Potato masher
• 10-inch square baking dish
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing
• Oven

Ingredients

• 3 pounds red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½-1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 medium size broccoli crown, about 2-3 cups bite-size broccoli florets
• 3 cups cooked, chopped chicken
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Mexican blend), divided

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 10-inch square baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and then transfer them back to the hot pot.
2. While the potatoes are boiling, steam or roast the broccoli until hot and barely softened. It should still be a little bit crisp. Drain any liquid from the broccoli. Cook the bacon, chop or crumble and set aside.
3. Place the pot with the potatoes back over the warm (but turned off) burner. If you have a gas stove, turn the heat to the lowest possible setting. This will help evaporate any water left in the pan and keep the mashed potatoes nice and fluffy. Smash the potatoes with a potato masher. Add the butter, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked broccoli, the chicken, the bacon, and 1 cup of cheese to the pot. Stir to mix throughout and then transfer to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the casserole is heated through. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure potatoes are fully drained before mashing to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
• For added flavor, try roasting the broccoli instead of steaming.
• Use a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor profile.

Additional Tips or Variations

To spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. You can also substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option or add some chopped bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for quick meals.

Can I freeze this casserole? This casserole can be frozen before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

Conclusion

There you have it, a comforting and delicious Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. We invite you to try this recipe and let us know how it turns out. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with. Happy cooking!