Chicken & Broccoli Casserole Recipe Easy & Perfect for Dinner

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Potatoes:
  • 4 large russet potatoes (scrubbed clean)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • ½ cup milk (whole milk or any milk alternative)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
• For the Chicken & Broccoli:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
• For the Cheese Topping:
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences. For example, swap out russet potatoes for sweet potatoes, or use cauliflower instead of broccoli for a low-carb option.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• Baking dish (9×13-inch works great)
• Large mixing bowl
• Potato masher or hand mixer
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and knife
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)

Don’t have a potato masher? You can use a fork or even the back of a spoon—it might take a little more elbow grease, but it works just as well! For budget-friendly options, check out your local dollar store for basic kitchen essentials.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the potatoes: Pierce each potato several times with a fork and microwave them on high for 10–12 minutes, or until they’re soft. You can also bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes. Let them cool slightly, then peel off the skins and place the flesh in a large mixing bowl.
3. Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes with the butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
4. Cook the broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain and set aside. For frozen broccoli, simply thaw and pat dry.
5. Prepare the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, just to warm it up and infuse it with flavor.
6. Assemble the casserole: Grease your baking dish lightly. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom. Layer the chicken and broccoli on top of the potatoes.
7. Add the cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Follow up with the Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color before serving.

Pro tip: If the cheese isn’t browning the way you like, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. But keep an eye on it—it can go from golden to burnt pretty quickly!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Timing is everything: Start microwaving your potatoes while prepping the chicken and broccoli to save time.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Keeping it slightly crisp helps maintain texture in the casserole.
• Layer strategically: Spread the potatoes evenly to create a sturdy base that holds the chicken and broccoli layers beautifully.
• Cheese matters: Opt for freshly shredded cheese—it melts better and gives a creamier finish compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Use leftovers wisely: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken or cooked veggies from earlier meals.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned when making casseroles is patience—let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-Carb Option: Swap mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with roasted mushrooms or sautéed tofu for a meat-free alternative.
• Seasonal Add-Ins: Add diced butternut squash or zucchini during the fall for added flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a sprinkle of feta for a tangy kick.
• Spicy Upgrade: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.

I once tried adding caramelized onions to this casserole—it was a game changer! Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven for maximum cheesy goodness. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. If you’re feeling festive, it also goes beautifully with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop a serving in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Planning ahead? You can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole is not just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients:

• Protein: The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Comforting Carbs: Potatoes offer a good source of energy and are naturally gluten-free.
• Calcium: The cheese adds a dose of calcium for strong bones.

If you’re watching your carb intake, try swapping the potatoes for cauliflower to lower the carbohydrate count while keeping the creamy texture intact.

Conclusion

This Chicken & Broccoli Baked Potato Casserole has all the makings of a classic comfort food dish—easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and packed with satisfying flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like home and brings people together around the dinner table.