baked potato chicken broccoli casserole for busy family dinner nights
When life gets hectic, finding a quick and satisfying dinner option can feel like a daunting task. Enter the baked potato chicken broccoli casserole—a dish that combines hearty ingredients into a comforting meal your whole family will love. This recipe makes the most of baked potatoes, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need to whip up something nutritious yet delicious.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and scrub the russet potatoes. Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the potatoes are baking, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 3-4 minutes until vibrant and tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh into a bowl, leaving about a quarter-inch of potato inside the skin.
- Mash the scooped potato flesh in the bowl and then fold in the cooked broccoli and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture.
- Gently fold the chicken and sauce mixture into the mashed potato and broccoli mixture until everything is well combined.
- Carefully spoon the combined mixture back into the potato skins. Place the filled potato halves in a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the stuffed potatoes. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for added crunch.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top for extra flavor and moisture.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of paprika over the top for color.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious baked potato chicken broccoli casserole!
Why This Casserole Works for Busy Families
This baked potato chicken broccoli casserole is an excellent choice for families on the go. It combines several food groups into one dish, making meal prep a breeze. The use of baked potatoes as a base provides a comforting, filling grain that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Additionally, this dish can be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and then simply reheated for a quick dinner option.
The recipe is also versatile, allowing you to substitute ingredients based on your family’s preferences. You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey, use different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even replace the cheese with a dairy-free option if needed. This adaptability makes it a go-to for busy families with varying tastes and dietary needs.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! This casserole stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If frozen, it’s best to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole can stand alone as a hearty meal, but you can elevate your dinner with a few simple sides. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, adding a crisp contrast to the creamy casserole. You could also serve it with crusty garlic bread or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add flavor to your casserole.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can easily substitute the chicken with additional vegetables or beans and use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a vegetarian option.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you prefer not to use sour cream, you can replace it with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to maintain the creaminess of the dish.
Final Thoughts
The baked potato chicken broccoli casserole for busy family dinner nights is a delicious and practical solution for those evenings when time is short but the need for a satisfying meal is high. With its balance of protein, vegetables, and comforting carbohydrates, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. Try it out and see how it transforms your weeknight dinners!
