When the week is flying by and you need a dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole has your back. It’s the ultimate comfort food that blends tender, diced chicken with hearty potato cubes and vibrant broccoli florets, all swirled in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This beginner-friendly casserole takes just 20 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, with an easy 5 minutes of resting time before you dive in. At around 400 calories per serving, it strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family night, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something cozy, this dish is a versatile winner.
I love how the cheddar cheese melts into every nook and cranny, creating golden pockets of gooey goodness, while the cream of chicken soup and sour cream add a silky, tangy richness. Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist the colorful mix of ingredients peeking through that golden breadcrumb topping, gently tossed in melted butter. Plus, with staples like olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder in your pantry, you can whip this up on a whim without a grocery run.
Growing up, casseroles were the backbone of our family dinners, especially when my siblings and I had sports practices stretching into the evening. I remember lugging home my hockey gear, starving, and discovering this bubbling casserole waiting in the oven—steam rising as I pulled back the foil, revealing mouthwatering layers of chicken, potatoes, and broccoli. My mom would always serve it straight from the hot baking dish, urging me to dig in before it cooled down. That rush of comfort and satisfaction stuck with me, and now I make it for friends whenever they need a pick-me-up or a hug in food form.
This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole is more than just dinner—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to form something truly comforting. The tender potatoes soak up the creamy sauce, the broccoli adds a pop of green and nutrients, and the seasoned chicken brings savory depth. Even better, it’s easily customizable: toss in some cauliflower, sprinkle in crushed red pepper for a kick, or swap in rotisserie chicken to save precious minutes. No matter how you tweak it, you’ll end up with a heartwarming, satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table.*
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN POTATO BROCCOLI CASSEROLE
Every ingredient in this Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole plays an essential role in creating that creamy, savory, and slightly crispy experience we all crave. Below, you’ll find a rundown of each main component and what it brings to the dish.
- Cooked chicken
Diced and ready to go, the chicken adds protein and a tender bite that complements the softness of the potatoes and the crunch of the broccoli. It also absorbs the savory flavors of the sauce for a well-rounded taste.
- Potatoes
Cubed and boiled until tender, these hearty spuds provide a satisfying base that holds up against baking. They soak up the creamy sauce, ensuring every forkful is rich and filling.
- Broccoli florets
Fresh and vibrant, broccoli brings color, texture, and nutrition. It adds a bright contrast to the creamy components and contributes a light crunch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
This sharp, melty cheese forms gooey strands throughout the casserole and creates golden pockets on top as it bakes.
- Sour cream
Creamy and slightly tangy, sour cream enriches the sauce, balancing the savory notes of the soup and cheese.
- Cream of chicken soup
The ultimate shortcut for that classic casserole texture, this soup lends creaminess and depth of flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
- Milk
Added to thin out the sauce just enough so it coats every piece of chicken and vegetable without becoming runny.
- Garlic powder
Provides mellow, savory garlic undertones that deepen the overall flavor without overpowering.
- Onion powder
Adds sweet, aromatic notes that complement the garlic powder and enhance the savory profile.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient and balance the creaminess.
- Olive oil
Used for greasing the baking dish, ensuring the casserole doesn’t stick and adding a touch of healthy fat.
- Bread crumbs
Combined with butter, they form a crisp, golden topping that adds texture and visual appeal.
- Melted butter
Mixed into the bread crumbs, butter creates a rich, crunchy crust that contrasts delightfully with the creamy filling.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN POTATO BROCCOLI CASSEROLE
Let’s walk through the steps so you can create this comforting casserole with confidence. From prepping the potatoes to achieving that perfectly golden breadcrumb topping, each stage is designed for simplicity without sacrificing flavor.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or a neutral cooking spray, making sure every corner is covered to prevent sticking.
2. In a large pot, place the cubed potatoes and add enough water to cover them completely. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Once soft, drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a spacious bowl, gently combine the diced chicken, cooked potatoes, fresh broccoli florets, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir just enough so the cheese starts to stick to the other ingredients.
4. In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the sauce is smooth and all spices are evenly distributed.
5. Pour the soup-cream mixture over the chicken and vegetable medley. Use a spatula to gently stir until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Transfer the well-mixed chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer for uniform baking.
7. In a small bowl, stir together bread crumbs and melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to ensure a golden crust.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
9. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN POTATO BROCCOLI CASSEROLE
Once your casserole emerges golden and bubbling, it’s time to think about how you’ll present and elevate each serving. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or sharing a meal with friends, these tips will help you plate up like a pro.
- Offer a side of crisp mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. The tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the casserole and provides a refreshing contrast in both texture and temperature.
- Serve with warm dinner rolls brushed with garlic butter. The soft, pillowy bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy sauce on the plate.
- Garnish each portion with a sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley or chives. This pop of herbal brightness not only looks beautiful but adds a clean, aromatic finish.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a light lager. The acidity in the wine or the effervescence of the beer will cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the cheesy, savory flavors.
HOW TO STORE CHICKEN POTATO BROCCOLI CASSEROLE
Keeping your casserole fresh and flavorful is simple when you follow these storage tips. Whether you’re saving leftovers for lunches or prepping ahead for a busy night, proper storage will maintain texture and taste.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it to prevent excess moisture and sogginess. Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.
- For longer storage, freeze individual portions in heavy-duty freezer bags or freezer-safe containers. Press out excess air, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through, to retain a crisp topping. You can cover the dish with foil for the first half to prevent over-browning.
- Alternatively, warm portions in the microwave on medium power, covering with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Stir halfway through to distribute heat evenly, then microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.
CONCLUSION
This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole is a true testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create a meal that feels like home. From the tender chicken and velvety potatoes to the bright green broccoli and golden, buttery breadcrumb topping, every element works in harmony to deliver comfort on a plate. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, you can enjoy a creamy, cheesy delight that’s as reliable on a hectic weeknight as it is impressive at a casual gathering. The process is straightforward—perfect for beginner cooks—yet the results are anything but ordinary. Whether you stick to the classic version or jazz it up with extra veggies, a dash of heat, or a handful of fresh herbs, this casserole will quickly become a go-to staple in your dinner rotation.
Feel free to print this article and save it for future reference or tuck it into your recipe binder. You’ll find a handy FAQ section below to answer all your burning questions about substitutions, storage, and reheating. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop a comment, share any tweaks you made, or let me know if you need tips on making it just right. Your feedback helps me keep crafting delicious, approachable recipes that feel like catching up with a friend over a comforting, home-cooked meal. Happy cooking!
Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole
Description
This creamy and cheesy casserole blends tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and vibrant broccoli for a comforting meal that's quick to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set aside.
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In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower to medium heat and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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In a large bowl, combine diced chicken, cooked potatoes, broccoli florets, and shredded cheddar cheese.
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In another bowl, mix together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
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Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and vegetables, gently stirring until everything is coated evenly.
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Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Note
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for more variety.
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and saves time.
- For a spicy twist, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated; just add a few extra minutes of baking time if cooking directly from the fridge.
