Cheesy Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole – Easy One-Pan Comfort Food

Have you ever thought that comfort food has to be hard to make or unhealthy to enjoy? What if one warm, cheesy dish could be simple, filling, and packed with good-for-you ingredients all at the same time? This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole proves that easy dinners can still feel special, cozy, and homemade. With tender chicken, soft potatoes, fresh broccoli, and lots of melted cheese, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy nights and hungry families.

What Makes This Recipe Special

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This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole is special because it brings everything you need for dinner into one baking dish. No extra pans. No fancy steps. Just simple ingredients that bake together into a creamy, cheesy meal everyone loves.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Ready with minimal prep
• Uses everyday ingredients
• Kid-friendly and family-approved
• Great balance of protein, veggies, and carbs
• Easy to customize

Time Requirement

• Prep time: 15–20 minutes
• Cook time: 40–45 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour

Difficulty Level

• Beginner-friendly
• Perfect for first-time casserole makers

Essential Ingredients

This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole uses simple pantry and fridge staples.

Main Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed)
• Potatoes (Yukon gold or russet, diced small)
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Cream of chicken soup
• Milk
• Butter
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• Paprika for mild heat
• Italian seasoning for extra flavor
• Sour cream for added creaminess

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap chicken breast with chicken thighs
• Use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available
• Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom
• Use dairy-free cheese for lactose-free diets

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a large baking dish.
• Dice potatoes into small, even pieces so they cook evenly.
• Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes.
• Chop broccoli into small florets.

Tip: Smaller pieces cook faster and blend better in the casserole.

Step 2: Par-Cook the Potatoes

• Boil diced potatoes for 8–10 minutes until slightly tender.
• Drain well.

Tip: This step prevents crunchy potatoes after baking.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine:

• Cream of chicken soup
• Milk
• Melted butter
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Assembly: How to Build the Casserole

Layering the Dish

1. Spread cooked potatoes evenly in the baking dish.
2. Add raw chicken pieces on top.
3. Sprinkle broccoli evenly over the chicken.
4. Pour the creamy sauce over everything.
5. Gently stir to coat all ingredients.

Add the Cheese

• Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella evenly on top.

Presentation Tip: Save a small handful of cheese to add during the last 10 minutes for extra golden topping.

Baking Instructions

• Cover the dish with foil.
• Bake for 30 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Cooking Tip: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets nicely.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Oven: Cover and heat at 350°F until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.

Make-Ahead Option

• Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance.
• Keep covered in the fridge.
• Bake when ready, adding 5 extra minutes to cook time.

Recipe Variations

Healthy Version

• Use reduced-fat cheese
• Add extra broccoli or spinach
• Replace cream soup with Greek yogurt and broth

Extra Cheesy

• Add cream cheese to the sauce
• Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Colby Jack

Spicy Twist

• Add diced jalapeños
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes

Low-Carb Option

• Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets

Kid-Friendly Version

• Use mild cheese
• Skip extra seasonings
• Serve with ketchup on the side

Health Benefits of Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole

This dish is more than just comfort food.

• Chicken provides lean protein for muscle health
• Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
• Potatoes offer energy and potassium
• Homemade casseroles reduce processed food intake

Balanced meals like this help keep families full and satisfied.

Conclusion

This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole is proof that comfort food can be easy, wholesome, and delicious. With one pan, simple steps, and endless variations, this recipe fits perfectly into busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Try new flavors, switch up the veggies, or add your favorite cheese to make it your own. Once you make it, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw and drain it well before using to avoid extra moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance and bake when ready.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, it includes protein, vegetables, and balanced carbs. You can make it lighter with reduced-fat ingredients.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be white throughout and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I freeze Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole?

Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What side dishes go well with this?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair well.