Ultimate Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Potato Bake

Ultimate Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Potato Bake

This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food! Tender seasoned chicken, golden baby potatoes, and crisp-tender broccoli are coated in a rich, creamy cheddar-Parmesan sauce, then topped with plenty of melted mozzarella and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s an easy, hearty family dinner that everyone will love!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 690 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

  • 700 g baby potatoes, halved
  • 1½ tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken and Broccoli

  • 700 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into large chunks
  • 400 g broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 300 ml chicken stock
  • 250 ml milk
  • 120 g shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 50 g finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Pinch of chili flakes, optional

For the Topping

  • 180 g shredded mozzarella
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Roast the Potatoes

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Place the halved baby potatoes on a large baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Spread them in a single layer and roast for about 20 minutes, until they begin to soften and turn lightly golden.

2. Prepare the Broccoli

While the potatoes are roasting, bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2–3 minutes, just until they become bright green and slightly tender. Drain well and set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and nearly cooked through.

Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.

5. Add the Stock and Milk

Gradually pour in the chicken stock while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

Add the milk and continue stirring. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon.

6. Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low.

Stir in the shredded Cheddar, Parmesan, dried oregano, and optional chili flakes. Continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

7. Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the roasted potatoes, broccoli, and cooked chicken to a large baking dish.

Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over everything. Gently toss or fold the ingredients together until well coated.

8. Add the Mozzarella

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.

Place the baking dish in the 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbling, and the cheese is completely melted.

9. Brown and Serve

For a beautifully golden, bubbly top, switch the oven to the broil/grill setting for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully so the cheese doesn’t burn.

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.

Helpful Tips

  • Use baby potatoes for the best texture and presentation.
  • Keep the broccoli florets fairly large so they don’t become too soft during baking.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken during the skillet step, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • For an extra-creamy sauce, use whole milk.
  • Cheddar adds a rich flavor, Parmesan adds depth, and mozzarella gives the casserole that delicious stretchy, golden topping.
  • Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so the creamy sauce can settle slightly.

Variations

  • Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
  • Substitute Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for some of the Cheddar.
  • Add sliced mushrooms or cauliflower along with the broccoli.
  • For a spicier casserole, increase the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serve this cheesy chicken, broccoli, and potato bake with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying family dinner.

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