Samantha There’s something incredibly satisfying about bringing a dish to the table that checks all the boxes: hearty, wholesome, and family-approved. This chicken potato broccoli casserole is exactly that. It’s a one-pan wonder packed with juicy chunks of chicken, tender baby potatoes, vibrant broccoli florets, and all that ooey-gooey cheesy goodness that ties everything together. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping a freezer-friendly make-ahead meal, this casserole never disappoints.
I love how customizable it is—swap in leftover rotisserie chicken, add in cauliflower or mushrooms, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist. Plus, it’s a full meal all on its own, no extra sides needed. Rich in protein, fiber, and satisfaction, this dish keeps you full and happy without the fuss. It’s also an easy way to sneak vegetables onto your plate without losing that indulgent comfort food feel. WebMD even recommends pairing high-protein ingredients like chicken with fiber-rich veggies for better satiety and balanced blood sugar.
And best of all, it’s a dinner everyone—yes, even the picky eaters—will ask for again. You’ll want to pin this to your “easy weeknight meals” board.
Recipe Overview
Primary Keyword: Chicken potato broccoli casserole
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Category: Dinner, Casserole
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~460 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: ~780mg
Nutritional values are estimates. For more detailed nutrient info, refer to Nutritionix.
Budget Breakdown
| Ingredient | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (4 medium) | $1.50 |
| Broccoli (2 cups) | $2.00 |
| Cooked chicken (2 cups) | $3.50 |
| Shredded cheese (2 cups) | $2.00 |
| Milk (1 cup) | $0.50 |
| Butter + flour (for roux) | $0.50 |
| Seasonings | $0.25 |
| Total | $10.25 |
This baked casserole feeds six hungry eaters for just over $10—and you likely have half of it in your fridge already.
Behind the Recipe
This cheesy chicken potato broccoli bake started as a way to repurpose leftover grilled chicken and a bag of baby potatoes I needed to use up. I was craving something warm and filling but didn’t want to babysit anything on the stove. A casserole was the obvious answer—and wow, did it deliver.
The first time I made it, my husband went back for thirds. Not seconds—thirds. I knew I was onto something. Since then, it’s become a regular in our house and one I often bring to friends who just had a baby, are recovering from illness, or simply need a little dinner love. It’s comfort food at its most practical.
I’ve tested this dish with different sauces, like cream of chicken soup or alfredo, and even tried layering it with breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Each time, it proves just how flexible it can be. That’s the beauty of casseroles—they evolve with your pantry.
Want to make it heart-healthier? Go for reduced-fat cheese and skip the sour cream in favor of Greek yogurt. According to Mayo Clinic, small changes like these can make your comfort food meals better for your long-term wellness without sacrificing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This
Balanced Comfort Food
This chicken potato broccoli casserole delivers everything you crave in a hearty, comforting dinner. Each serving offers a satisfying balance of lean protein from the chicken, slow-digesting carbs from the potatoes, and fiber-rich nutrients from the broccoli. It’s an all-in-one dish that’s filling, nourishing, and ideal for anyone looking for a healthy comfort food option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, it fits beautifully into family meal plans focused on real ingredients and whole-food nutrition.
Versatile Ingredients
One of the best things about this cheesy chicken bake is how forgiving it is. Got leftover rotisserie chicken? Toss it in. Prefer grilled or shredded chicken breasts? That works too. You can even go with turkey if that’s what’s in your fridge. The vegetable options are flexible too—fresh or frozen broccoli works equally well, and you can easily substitute cauliflower, spinach, or kale. As for the potatoes, anything from red potatoes to Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes will bake up beautifully. According to Nutritionix, potatoes are a good source of potassium and complex carbohydrates—making them an excellent base for any family dinner.
Make-Ahead Magic
This is the kind of make-ahead casserole that busy families dream of. Assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, which makes it even more delicious the next day. It also freezes well—just portion it into individual servings for easy reheating during hectic weeks. If you’re batch-cooking for the month or just prepping for a busy school season, this recipe fits right into your schedule.
Customizable
From spicy to smoky or lightened-up, this chicken casserole is a blank canvas for your flavor preferences. Add crumbled bacon for extra richness, stir in jalapeños for a spicy kick, or swap the cheese blend for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even dairy-free options. For a lower-calorie version, use reduced-fat sour cream or substitute in plain Greek yogurt and low-fat shredded cheese. Little tweaks like these help you control both the flavor and nutritional content—without losing that cozy, crave-worthy texture.
Kid-Approved
Let’s face it—some nights are a struggle to get kids to eat their veggies. But this easy family dinner wraps them in melty cheese and comforting creaminess, making it an instant win at the dinner table. Even picky eaters won’t mind the broccoli when it’s baked into such a creamy, cheesy mix. And the best part? You can sneak in other veggies too—think diced carrots, spinach, or peas—without a single complaint.
Perfect For…
Weeknight Family Dinners
When your evenings are hectic but you still want to serve something wholesome, this chicken potato broccoli casserole is your go-to. With lean chicken, tender baby potatoes, and fiber-rich broccoli all baked into a cheesy, creamy blend, there’s no need to prep any side dishes. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s satisfying and nutritionally balanced—perfect for busy families who want real meals made simple. According to WebMD, planning balanced, one-pan dinners like this can help reduce stress and support healthier eating habits at home.
Potluck Parties
Bringing a dish to share? This cheesy chicken bake is a crowd-favorite that earns you recipe requests every single time. It stays warm for hours in a slow cooker or insulated casserole carrier, and it’s hearty enough to be a main course. Plus, it looks just as inviting as it tastes—making it ideal for church dinners, family reunions, or holiday buffets.
Make-Ahead Meal Prep
This casserole checks all the boxes for a great easy freezer meal. Once baked and cooled, you can cut it into squares, store in individual containers, and freeze for easy lunches or lazy-night dinners. It reheats like a dream in both the microwave and oven, retaining that creamy texture and comforting flavor. Whether you’re planning ahead for postpartum meals or prepping for a new work week, this one’s freezer gold.
Comfort Food Cravings
Sometimes you just need a warm, cheesy comfort food meal to wrap up the day—and this casserole delivers every time. The creamy cheese sauce, tender chunks of chicken, and golden potatoes create a soul-soothing experience that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s everything you want in a comfort dish, without the heaviness of deep-fried options or complicated prep.
Feeding Picky Eaters
Need a vegetable casserole that even your veggie-averse little ones will eat? This is it. The creamy, cheesy base disguises the broccoli just enough to win over picky eaters while still delivering those vital nutrients. You can even chop the broccoli smaller or mix in sweeter veggies like carrots or corn to make it more appealing. It’s proof that dinner can be both nourishing and a hit with the entire table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole preferred)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: paprika, bacon crumbles, hot sauce
Ingredient Highlights
- Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold up well and absorb the sauce.
- Broccoli: A great source of vitamin C and fiber. Medical News Today lists it as one of the most nutrient-dense veggies.
- Chicken: Use pre-cooked, rotisserie, or even canned in a pinch.
- Cheese Sauce: Made from a simple roux (butter + flour), milk, and shredded cheese. It’s creamy without any canned soup.
How to Make It
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Boil the Potatoes
Boil diced potatoes in salted water for 8–10 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix in 1 1/2 cups of cheese until melted.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Layer the cooked potatoes, chicken, and broccoli in your baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over everything. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
5. Bake and Serve
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 more minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with paprika or bacon bits if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Parboil the Potatoes: This cuts down on bake time and ensures even texture.
- Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: If using frozen, thaw and pat dry to avoid watery casserole.
- Make it Spicy: Stir a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika into the cheese sauce.
- Don’t Overcook: You want the broccoli to stay bright green and tender.
Easy Variations
Low Carb Option
Watching your carbs? You can still enjoy this chicken potato broccoli casserole by making a few simple swaps. Replace the potatoes with chopped cauliflower florets or turnips for a low-carb twist that still gives you that hearty texture. Use full-fat cheese and a touch of heavy cream instead of flour-based sauces. The Healthline highlights how swapping starchy sides with fiber-rich, non-starchy veggies like broccoli and cauliflower can help manage blood sugar and boost satiety.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the chicken entirely and boost the veggie content for a plant-powered meal that still delivers comfort. Add in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or even cooked lentils for protein. Swap in a creamy mushroom or cheese-based sauce and load up on extra cheese for that same satisfying bite. It’s one of the easiest easy vegetable casseroles you can make and great for Meatless Monday or vegetarian guests.
Spicy Kick
Love a little heat? Give your cheesy chicken casserole a spicy twist by adding chopped jalapeños or red chili flakes into the sauce. You can also use pepper jack cheese for extra zing or drizzle hot sauce on top before serving. This small tweak turns it into a bold, adult-friendly dinner without complicating the process.
Southwest Style
Turn this cozy bake into a Tex-Mex inspired casserole by mixing in a cup of drained salsa, a handful of black beans, and a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika. Add corn kernels and top with crushed tortilla chips or shredded Mexican-blend cheese. It’s a fusion twist that brings the flavor and makes great use of pantry staples.
Dairy-Free Version
Need a family-friendly dinner that works for dairy-sensitive eaters? No problem. Use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative, almond or oat milk, and a roux made with olive oil instead of butter. You can also swap sour cream with a plant-based yogurt for creaminess. Just be sure to use well-seasoned ingredients so you still get all the savory satisfaction.
Freezer-Friendly Bake
If you’re looking for a smart freezer-friendly meal, this casserole adapts beautifully. Assemble everything (unbaked), cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. It’s a fantastic option for postpartum prep, busy seasons, or meal train gifts for a friend.
Storage & Reheat Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions wrapped in foil for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Microwave or bake at 325°F until warmed through.
Make It a Meal
Serve this chicken potato broccoli casserole with:
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
- Healthy Hashbrown Chaffle Delight
- Best Ever Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs
Explore more from our One-Pan Dinner, Comfort Food Dinner, and Make-Ahead Dinner tags!
Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole: One Cozy Dish for the Whole Table
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or cubed
- 2 cups chopped broccoli fresh or thawed from frozen
- 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or a blend
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk whole preferred
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: paprika bacon crumbles, hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and PrepPreheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Boil the PotatoesBoil diced potatoes in salted water for 8–10 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese SauceIn a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix in 1 1/2 cups of cheese until melted.
- Assemble the CasseroleLayer the cooked potatoes, chicken, and broccoli in your baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over everything. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake and ServeCover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 more minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with paprika or bacon bits if desired.
Notes
Secret Tips for Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole
1. Parboil the Potatoes for the Perfect Texture: Raw potatoes can take longer to cook than the rest of your ingredients. To avoid undercooked chunks, parboil baby potatoes for about 5–7 minutes before mixing them into the casserole. This ensures they’re fork-tender by the time your casserole is golden and bubbly. 2. Use a Mix of Cheeses for Depth of Flavor: While cheddar is classic, combining it with mozzarella for stretch and parmesan for sharpness gives the dish a more complex, restaurant-quality flavor. Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself—it melts smoother than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. 3. Dry the Broccoli to Prevent a Watery Casserole: Whether using frozen or fresh broccoli, pat it dry after rinsing or defrosting. Extra moisture can make your casserole watery instead of creamy. If using frozen, thaw it completely and blot it with a paper towel before adding. 4. Add Garlic Powder and Onion Powder for Extra Depth: Just a ½ teaspoon of each adds a subtle richness and enhances the overall savory flavor without needing to sauté anything separately. 5. Let It Rest Before Serving: As tempting as it is to dig in right away, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set and the sauce to thicken, making it easier to slice and serve clean portions. 6. Sneak in More Veggies (They Won’t Notice!): Diced carrots, cauliflower, or even peas blend in beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce. A great way to increase nutrients without alerting picky eaters. These tips turn your easy cheesy chicken potato broccoli casserole into a weeknight masterpiece you’ll crave again and again.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli in chicken potato broccoli casserole?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this dish. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to avoid excess moisture in your cheesy chicken casserole. This is a great shortcut for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep.
What’s the best type of potato for casseroles?
I recommend baby red potatoes or Yukon Gold for the best texture—they hold their shape during baking and soak up the creamy sauce without getting mushy. You can also use diced russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! This make-ahead chicken casserole is ideal for meal prep. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it unbaked and cook it later—just thaw in the fridge overnight.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
You can lighten it up by using reduced-fat cheese, swapping sour cream for plain Greek yogurt, and using skinless chicken breast. Healthline notes that these kinds of swaps can make comfort food much healthier while keeping it satisfying and flavorful.
How long does chicken potato broccoli casserole last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or pop it in a 350°F oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well for longer storage—just portion it out for easier reheating.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes this casserole even quicker to put together. Just shred the meat and mix it into the casserole before baking. It’s a great way to use leftovers and save time on cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not by default, since many cheese sauces and some store-bought soups contain flour or thickeners. However, you can easily make this a gluten-free casserole by using a cornstarch-based cheese sauce or a certified gluten-free cream soup alternative. Learn more about gluten sensitivity and cross-contamination from Cleveland Clinic.
Can I add rice instead of potatoes?
Yes, if you’d prefer a chicken broccoli rice casserole variation, swap the diced potatoes for 2 cups of cooked rice. Use less sauce to keep the texture just right and be sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it in.
What protein alternatives can I use besides chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey, diced ham, or even cooked bacon bits work beautifully in this recipe. You can also make it vegetarian by skipping the meat entirely and bulking up on mushrooms or lentils.
Final Thoughts
This chicken potato broccoli casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a dinner solution. A way to serve something delicious and nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s that go-to meal you can count on to please a crowd, satisfy a craving, or make a weeknight feel a little more special.
I love how it brings comfort to the table without needing complicated ingredients or steps. It’s humble, dependable, and endlessly customizable—kind of like your favorite sweatshirt in food form. You can dress it up, lighten it up, or prep it in advance. No matter how you make it, the result is always the same: cheesy, hearty, and totally soul-satisfying.
So whether you’re making this for your family, your neighbors, or yourself (no shame in that!), this recipe is bound to become one of those classics you keep coming back to. Grab your casserole dish, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy the cozy embrace of one seriously delicious meal.
“When comfort is the craving and simplicity is the goal, this cheesy chicken potato broccoli casserole answers with warmth in every bite.” — Sam
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Cheesy, creamy, and packed with chicken, potatoes, and broccoli—this baked casserole is your new weeknight dinner favorite!
