Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender baked potatoes, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli with creamy, cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. With a crispy potato skin base and a rich, flavorful filling, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, washed and pricked with a fork
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Fresh chives, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Potatoes
Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Make the Filling
Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving some for structure. Mash the scooped-out potatoes with butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until smooth. Stir in shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and half of the cheddar cheese.

Assemble the Casserole
Stuff the potato skins with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.

Bake the Casserole
Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chives. Serve warm and enjoy a delicious and filling meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven, for the best texture and flavor.
• Pair it with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra creaminess.
• For added crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits or crushed crackers on top before baking.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap each stuffed potato tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through. If reheating from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole fresh and flavorful, even as leftovers.

Variations

1. Cheesy Bacon Ranch Variation

• Add ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the filling for a smoky flavor.
• Mix in 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning for a tangy twist.
• Use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for extra cheesiness.

2. Buffalo Chicken Twist

• Toss the shredded chicken with ¼ cup of buffalo sauce before mixing it into the filling.
• Substitute blue cheese crumbles for some of the cheddar cheese.
• Drizzle ranch dressing on top before serving for a spicy and creamy finish.

3. Loaded Veggie Version

• Add ½ cup of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for more nutrients.
• Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Sprinkle a handful of toasted breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

4. BBQ Chicken Style

• Mix ¼ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce into the chicken mixture.
• Swap cheddar cheese for smoked gouda or pepper jack for a bold flavor.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.

5. Tex-Mex Casserole

• Stir in ½ teaspoon of taco seasoning and ¼ cup of salsa into the potato mixture.
• Use a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
• Top with sliced jalapeños and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

6. Mediterranean Inspired

• Swap cheddar cheese for crumbled feta.
• Add ¼ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and ½ teaspoon of dried oregano.
• Use shredded rotisserie chicken seasoned with a little lemon juice for a fresh, tangy touch.

7. Alfredo Style Casserole

• Replace sour cream with ½ cup of Alfredo sauce for a rich, creamy filling.
• Use mozzarella or Parmesan cheese instead of cheddar.
• Serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.

These variations make it easy to customize your Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Try different combinations to keep this dish exciting every time you make it!

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a slightly sweeter and healthier twist. The texture will be softer, but the flavors will still blend well.

2. What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or a little heavy cream can be used as a substitute for sour cream while maintaining the creamy texture.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. How do I make this recipe lower in carbs?
Swap the potatoes for mashed cauliflower or use a combination of cauliflower and potatoes to reduce the carb content.

5. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and adds extra flavor to the dish.

6. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also add cooked lentils or black beans for protein.

7. What’s the best cheese to use for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese works well, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of different cheeses for more flavor.

8. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble the stuffed potatoes, wrap them individually, and freeze them for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes.

9. How do I prevent the potatoes from getting too dry?
Be sure to mash the potato filling with enough butter, sour cream, or milk to keep it creamy. Covering the casserole while baking can also help retain moisture.

10. Can I add more protein to this recipe?
Yes! Try adding crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even cooked ground turkey for an extra protein boost.

These FAQs help troubleshoot common questions and provide ways to customize your Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole for different dietary needs and preferences.

Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a simple yet delicious dish that combines classic flavors in a hearty, comforting meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or a way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe is a perfect choice. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and satisfying flavors, this dish is guaranteed to please the whole family.

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