Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the kind of cozy, family-friendly comfort food that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty ingredients, this one-dish meal brings together tender potatoes, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli in a rich sauce that tastes like a classic loaded baked potato—only better, because it’s all baked together in one pan.

I first made this Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole on a busy weeknight when I needed something filling but completely fuss-free. I wanted a dinner that felt indulgent and comforting, yet balanced enough to serve my family without a second thought. This recipe delivered exactly that. It’s creamy without being heavy, satisfying without being complicated, and wonderfully practical for real life.

What makes this casserole extra special is how effortlessly it comes together. With pantry-friendly ingredients, simple steps, and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or using up leftovers. Even better, it reheats beautifully, making it a reliable go-to when you want something homemade and comforting without starting from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite

This casserole is all about that rich, comforting texture we crave. The sauce is made with milk, sour cream, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan, creating a creamy base that coats every bite. It delivers all the classic baked potato flavors you love—cheesy, savory, and satisfying—without feeling overly heavy or greasy.

Simple, Affordable Ingredients

Nothing fancy here, and that’s part of the charm. This recipe uses everyday staples like potatoes, chicken, and broccoli—ingredients you probably already have on hand. There’s no need for specialty items, which makes this dish both budget-friendly and easy to plan for busy weeks.

Easy, Foolproof Preparation

If you’re looking for a stress-free dinner, this recipe has your back. The steps are straightforward, the techniques are simple, and everything comes together smoothly—even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe you can confidently make after a long day.

Customizable for Any Household

This casserole is wonderfully flexible. Add crispy bacon, swap out cheeses, or adjust the veggies to suit your family’s tastes. It works just as well for picky eaters as it does for adventurous ones, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any table.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients and Their Role

One of the things I love most about this casserole is how familiar and comforting the ingredients are. Nothing fancy, nothing hard to find—just simple, reliable staples that come together beautifully. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that creamy, cozy baked potato flavor we all crave.

Russet potatoes – These are the heart of the casserole. Their starchy texture gives you that classic baked potato feel and helps soak up all the creamy sauce.
Cooked chicken breast – A lean, satisfying protein that makes this casserole filling enough for a complete meal.
Broccoli florets – Add freshness, color, and a nutritional boost that balances the richness of the dish.
Butter – Forms the flavorful base of the sauce and adds richness without overpowering.
Garlic – Brings a gentle aromatic depth that enhances every bite.
All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce so it’s creamy and luscious, not runny.
Milk – Creates a smooth, velvety consistency for the sauce.
Sour cream – Adds that signature tangy baked-potato flavor we all love.
Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and provides bold, comforting cheesiness.
Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, savory balance that deepens the flavor.
Salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme – A simple seasoning blend that brings warmth and balance.
Bacon (optional) – For a smoky crunch that takes things up a notch.
Green onions (optional) – A fresh, colorful finishing touch that brightens the dish.

How to Make Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is wonderfully forgiving and easy to follow. Take it step by step, and you’ll be rewarded with a bubbling, golden casserole that smells incredible.

Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later.
Cook the Potatoes
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the diced potatoes until they’re just fork-tender. You want them soft but not falling apart—overcooking can lead to a mushy casserole.
Blanch the Broccoli
Quickly blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then drain well. This keeps it vibrant, tender-crisp, and perfectly cooked after baking.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic briefly until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute, then slowly add the milk, whisking until the sauce thickens and turns silky smooth.
Add Flavor and Cheese
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the sour cream, seasonings, cheddar, and Parmesan. The cheese should melt right in, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
Assemble the Casserole
In a large bowl, gently combine the potatoes, chicken, broccoli, and sauce until everything is well coated.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Transfer the mixture to your prepared dish, top with extra cheese (and bacon if using), and bake until bubbly with lightly crisp edges.
Garnish and Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes, then finish with green onions or extra bacon. Serve warm and enjoy every comforting bite.

What to Serve with Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Suggested Pairings

This casserole is hearty and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can turn it into a well-rounded, feel-good meal. I like to keep the accompaniments light and fresh to balance the creamy richness of the casserole.

Fresh salads
- Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and crunch
- Caesar salad for a classic, slightly indulgent pairing
Vegetable sides
- Roasted carrots with a touch of honey or herbs for natural sweetness
- Garlic green beans to bring a crisp, savory contrast
Breads
- Dinner rolls for soaking up every bit of that creamy sauce
- Garlic bread for an extra cozy, comfort-food vibe
Drinks
- Iced tea for a refreshing, family-friendly option
- Sparkling water with lemon to keep things light
- Light white wine for a relaxed, sit-down dinner

Variations and Substitutions

Bacon-Free or Vegetarian Option

If you’re skipping bacon or want a vegetarian-friendly version, this casserole adapts beautifully. Simply leave out the bacon and replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or extra broccoli. The creamy sauce and cheesy base still provide plenty of flavor, making it just as comforting and satisfying.

Extra Cheesy Version

For cheese lovers, this variation is pure joy. Add shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack for an extra gooey texture, or sprinkle additional cheese halfway through baking for extra melt and stretch. It’s a small tweak that makes the casserole feel even more indulgent.

Gluten-Free Option

Making this casserole gluten-free is easier than you might expect. Swap the all-purpose flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when thickening the sauce. Just be sure your cheeses and bacon (if using) are certified gluten-free for peace of mind.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration Tips

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This casserole keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick reheats during the week.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating for Best Results

For the best texture, reheat in the oven until warmed through. If it looks a little dry, add a small splash of milk before reheating to bring back that creamy goodness.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

A few small tips can make a big difference when it comes to turning this casserole from good to truly unforgettable. These are the little things I’ve learned after making it more than once—and they’ll help you feel confident every step of the way.

Don’t overcook the potatoes
Cook them just until fork-tender. If they’re too soft, they can break down and make the casserole mushy instead of perfectly hearty.
Shred cheese fresh for the best melt
Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and creamier than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
Season the sauce generously
Potatoes love salt, so don’t be shy. Taste and adjust the seasoning before assembling to ensure full, balanced flavor.
Let the casserole rest before serving
Giving it 5–10 minutes to settle helps everything firm up and makes serving much easier.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time
This is a wonderful shortcut on busy nights and adds great flavor with zero extra effort.
Taste the sauce before assembling
This is your chance to tweak seasoning and cheesiness before it goes into the oven.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, you might enjoy these other cozy, comforting casserole and baked dinner recipes from CreativeCookery:

Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake – A creamy, cheesy bake with tender chicken, broccoli, and pasta that’s golden and bubbly.
Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken – A cheesy, homestyle chicken and broccoli casserole inspired by classic comfort flavors.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole – Creamy chicken casserole with a buttery crispy cracker topping for added texture.

FAQs

Can I make Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for busy schedules or hosting.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw it completely and drain off any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole to avoid extra liquid.

What type of potatoes work best for this casserole?

Russet potatoes are ideal. Their starchy texture creates that classic baked potato feel and helps the casserole stay creamy without becoming watery.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Definitely. Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and adds great flavor. Simply shred or dice it and you’re good to go.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Make sure your sauce is thick but still pourable before mixing, and don’t overbake. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.

Conclusion

Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is everything we love about comfort food—creamy, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. It’s a family-approved favorite that brings together simple ingredients in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping meals for the week, or just craving something cozy, this casserole fits right in.

Don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite cheeses, veggies, or add-ins to make it your own. Try this recipe tonight and let me know how it turned out in the comments! And if you loved it, don’t forget to pin this casserole for later so you can enjoy it again and again.