easy meal prep baked potato chicken broccoli casserole for weekly lunches
Are you tired of the same boring lunches every week? Do you want something nutritious, filling, and easy to prepare? If you crave a delicious meal that you can prep in advance, look no further than this easy meal prep baked potato chicken broccoli casserole. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, this recipe will quickly become a weekly staple in your lunch rotation.
This casserole combines tender chicken, creamy baked potatoes, and fresh broccoli, all baked together in a cheesy sauce. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also a breeze to make. You can prepare it ahead of time and portion it out for the week, saving you time and effort during busy days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, baked and diced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the baked potatoes by washing them thoroughly, then baking them in the oven for about 45 minutes or until tender. Once cooked, let them cool slightly and dice into cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced baked potatoes, cooked chicken, and broccoli florets.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika until well combined.
- Pour the sour cream mixture over the potato and chicken mixture, stirring gently until everything is coated evenly.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring that it covers the entire surface.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top of the cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and enjoy your delicious meal prep casserole!
Why This Casserole is Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best things about this easy meal prep baked potato chicken broccoli casserole is that it stores beautifully. You can make it in advance, portion it out, and store it in the fridge or even freeze it for later. This makes it ideal for busy people who want to eat healthily without spending hours in the kitchen.
Each serving is packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the potatoes, and vitamins from the broccoli. Not only does this casserole nourish your body, but it also satisfies your taste buds with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. You won’t miss those boring sandwiches or salads when you have this dish in your weekly menu.
Tips for Making the Best Casserole
To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:
- Use leftover chicken: If you have rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken from a previous meal, this is a great time to use it. It saves preparation time and adds extra flavor.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
- Make it gluten-free: This casserole is naturally gluten-free, but always check your ingredients, especially the chicken broth, to ensure they are free from gluten.
- Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat in your meals.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
To store your casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning it into single servings for easy access.
When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat it in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. If it was frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole lighter, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just bake it when you are ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
This easy meal prep baked potato chicken broccoli casserole is a game changer for anyone looking to simplify their lunch routine. With its delicious flavors, wholesome ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weekdays.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the convenience of having a hearty meal ready to go whenever you need it. Your taste buds and your schedule will thank you!
