Chicken broccoli potato casserole is that comforting classic you can count on when dinner needs to be both filling and fuss-free. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a dish that’s creamy, savory, and layered with nutritious goodness. From prepping fresh ingredients to pulling a bubbling tray out of the oven, every step is simple and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole delivers on taste, texture, and convenience. Let’s dive into the story behind it, why it works so well, and how you can make it a staple in your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole: A Hearty Favorite for Any Night
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This chicken broccoli potato casserole is creamy, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¾ cup milk or cream
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Optional: paprika or breadcrumbs on top
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Layer diced potatoes, chicken, and broccoli evenly in dish.
4. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic.
5. In a bowl, mix milk and half the cheese, then pour over the casserole.
6. Top with remaining cheese (add breadcrumbs if desired).
7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until top is golden and potatoes are fork-tender.
9. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
Swap cheddar for any cheese you like—mozzarella, pepper jack, or parmesan.
Make ahead by assembling up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerating until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
A Home-Cooked Story with Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole
The memory behind this casserole
If you stepped into my kitchen in Asheville around dinnertime, you’d smell roasted garlic, see potatoes crisping in the oven, and maybe catch a bit of cheddar melting over golden chicken. That’s the magic of chicken broccoli potato casserole—a recipe I’ve turned to again and again since my early days learning to cook from scratch.
Growing up in Vermont, my dad’s grilled chicken and my mom’s baked everything shaped how I think about food. Meals weren’t fancy, but they were always made with love. This casserole started out as a way to clean out the fridge. I had leftover chicken, a few russet potatoes, and a bunch of broccoli that needed to be used. I tossed them in a baking dish with a bit of garlic, cream, and cheese, and what came out of the oven was better than I expected—crispy edges, tender veggies, and all the flavor in one pan.
It’s now a regular on our weekly menu. It’s the kind of dish you can prep ahead or bake on a whim, and it always feels like home.
Why it’s always a good idea
Chicken broccoli potato casserole works because it’s balanced, budget-friendly, and built for real life. You’re getting lean protein, hearty carbs, and fresh greens all in one go. Plus, it’s easy to modify—add mushrooms, swap the cheese, or season it with your favorite herbs. It’s also a smart choice for meal prep because it reheats beautifully and keeps you full longer.
In the next section, I’ll walk you through each step to make this chicken broccoli potato casserole come together without a hitch.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole Step by Step
Start with simple, fresh ingredients
The beauty of chicken broccoli potato casserole is how effortless it is once you have the right ingredients ready. You’ll need three main items: boneless chicken breast or thighs, fresh broccoli florets, and firm potatoes like russet or Yukon gold. Everything else—cheese, cream, garlic, and seasonings—are likely already in your kitchen.
Start by washing and peeling your potatoes. Dice them into bite-sized cubes, about the same size as the chicken so everything cooks evenly. Next, cut the broccoli into small florets and set them aside. If using frozen broccoli, just thaw and pat dry to avoid extra moisture.
For the chicken, trim any excess fat and cube the meat into even chunks. Pre-cooked chicken works too—just reduce the baking time a little.
Assemble and bake your way to comfort food perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish. Now, layer in the ingredients: first the potatoes, followed by chicken, then broccoli. Season each layer with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of paprika if you like a bit of warmth.
In a small bowl, whisk together about ¾ cup of cream or milk with shredded cheese—cheddar is always a good pick. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients. Top it all off with another handful of cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes each bite taste just right.
In the next part, we’ll explore tips for making it healthier, storing leftovers, and easy flavor swaps.
Make Your Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole Healthier and Store It Right
Smart ingredient swaps
One of the best things about chicken broccoli potato casserole is how easy it is to adjust for a lighter option. You can use low-fat milk or almond milk in place of cream. A little plain Greek yogurt adds richness without the heaviness.
Stick with chicken breast to keep things lean, and try using less cheese or a sharper variety like aged cheddar, which delivers full flavor with smaller amounts. Roasting the potatoes before baking your casserole gives them a crisp texture and helps develop even more flavor.
Feel free to mix in extra vegetables too. While broccoli is a staple in this casserole, bell peppers, spinach, or even chopped carrots work beautifully.
Why it’s great for leftovers
Chicken broccoli potato casserole is one of the best meals to cook once and eat multiple times. After it cools, store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven, making it ideal for packed lunches or quick dinners.
You can also freeze it. Wrap the dish tightly and store it for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
If you’re meal prepping, assemble your chicken broccoli potato casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake and enjoy a hot, hearty dinner with minimal effort.
Serving Ideas and Flavor Twists for Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole
Simple ways to serve it any night of the week
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, chicken broccoli potato casserole always hits the mark. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs well with a crisp green salad or a warm slice of garlic bread.
This dish is perfect for weeknights when you don’t want to cook twice. It’s also a favorite for gatherings because it’s easy to double, and everyone—from kids to grandparents—loves it. The creamy texture, seasoned chicken, and roasted potatoes bring a cozy balance that feels homemade every time.
You can serve it straight from the baking dish or portion it out in individual ramekins for a more polished presentation. Either way, this casserole is a reliable go-to for all occasions.
Fun variations to keep it exciting
Even though chicken broccoli potato casserole is delicious as is, it’s easy to mix things up. Want a smoky flavor? Add a handful of cooked bacon or a dash of smoked paprika. Need more color? Stir in chopped red peppers or frozen peas.
Cheese lovers can switch cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack. If you’re after a crisp top layer, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before the final bake.
You can also make it a one-pan dinner by layering everything raw in the dish and letting the oven do the work. That’s the magic of chicken broccoli potato casserole—it adapts to your pantry and your schedule.
When you’ve got this recipe in your rotation, you’re never far from a warm, filling, and satisfying meal that feels like home.
FAQs About Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole
Can I eat chicken and broccoli everyday for weight loss?
Yes, you can enjoy chicken and broccoli regularly as part of a weight loss plan, especially when they’re prepared in a healthy way. Chicken provides lean protein while broccoli is high in fiber and nutrients. When combined in a light chicken broccoli potato casserole, it creates a balanced, satisfying meal. Just be mindful of portion sizes and heavy sauces if your goal is to reduce calories.
Can you cook potatoes in the same pan as chicken?
Absolutely. That’s one of the reasons chicken broccoli potato casserole is so convenient. Cooking potatoes with chicken in one pan allows all the flavors to blend together while saving time and cleanup. Just make sure everything is cut to similar sizes so it bakes evenly. A casserole dish is perfect for this kind of all-in-one method.
Are chicken, potatoes, and broccoli healthy?
Yes. Chicken is a lean source of protein, broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, and potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and potassium. When combined into a dish like chicken broccoli potato casserole, they offer a full spectrum of nutrients in one hearty, satisfying meal. It’s an excellent option for families or meal preppers looking to stay full without relying on processed foods.
How long does chicken broccoli potato casserole last in the fridge?
Once cooked and cooled, chicken broccoli potato casserole will last up to four days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It reheats well in the microwave or oven, making it a great option for leftovers or lunch the next day. For longer storage, freeze it for up to two months and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Chicken broccoli potato casserole isn’t just a meal—it’s a reliable kitchen hero. Whether you’re trying to feed your family on a busy night, prepping a week of lunches, or just craving something warm and filling, this dish delivers. The combination of tender chicken, roasted potatoes, and crisp-tender broccoli wrapped in a creamy, cheesy layer offers the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition.
It’s flexible, forgiving, and fully customizable to your tastes or what you’ve got on hand. With make-ahead options, easy reheating, and room for creative twists, this casserole proves that simple food really is the most satisfying. Keep it in your meal plan rotation, and you’ll always have something wholesome and hearty to look forward to.
