Chicken And Potato Casserole Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Potato Casserole Recipe – Family Favorite

Comfort arrives with this hearty chicken and potato casserole that promises warmth in every delectable bite.

Cozy kitchens whisper secrets of culinary magic through simple, nourishing ingredients.

Layered potatoes nestled against tender chicken create a harmonious melody of flavors you’ll crave.

Rich, creamy textures meld together in a dish that speaks directly to your hunger.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this casserole delivers with remarkable ease.

Cheese-topped goodness transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Hunger calls, and this recipe answers with a symphony of deliciousness waiting to dance on your plate.

Chicken And Potato Casserole For Comfort Meals

  • Tackle Complex Flavors Easily: This lasagna casserole combines rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly seasoned ingredients for a gourmet-style meal that tastes like a restaurant masterpiece.
  • Master One-Dish Wonder: Simplify your cooking process with a single casserole that packs protein, carbs, and veggies into one delicious meal, minimizing kitchen cleanup and maximizing flavor.
  • Customize Like a Pro: Swap ground beef for sausage, adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes, or add extra vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours while keeping the core technique super simple.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry group, this hearty dish guarantees smiles and second helpings with its classic Italian-inspired layers and cheesy goodness.

Chicken And Potato Casserole Ingredient Checklist

For the Protein:
  • Chicken: A lean and flavorful meat that serves as the main protein source in this comforting casserole.
For the Starch:
  • Potatoes: Sliced potatoes provide a hearty base and creamy texture to the casserole.
For the Cheese and Dairy:
  • Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: These cheeses create a rich, melty sauce and add depth of flavor to the dish.
  • Heavy Cream: Helps create a smooth and creamy sauce that binds the ingredients together.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps develop the roux for the sauce.
For the Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Onions, Garlic: Provide a savory base and enhance the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
  • Thyme: A fragrant herb that adds a subtle earthy note to the dish.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the flavors.
For the Sauce Thickener:
  • Flour: Used to create a roux and thicken the creamy sauce.
For the Broth and Optional Garnish:
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
  • Fresh Parsley: An optional garnish that provides a fresh, bright touch to the finished dish.

Steps To Chicken And Potato Casserole Success

Steps To Chicken And Potato Casserole Success

Step 1: Prepare The Oven And Baking Dish

Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Velvety Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to develop a smooth roux.

Gradually pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens beautifully.

Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until they melt completely. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper for a rich, savory flavor.

Step 3: Layer First Foundation

Spread a generous layer of sliced potatoes across the bottom of the baking dish. Top with:
  • Diced onions
  • Minced garlic
  • Cooked chicken pieces

Step 4: Add First Sauce Layer

Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the first layer, ensuring everything gets a delicious coating.

Step 5: Complete The Casserole Layers

Create a second layer with remaining ingredients:
  • Potato slices
  • Chicken pieces
  • Onions
  • Remaining cheese sauce

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes. The potatoes should become tender, and chicken should cook completely.

Step 7: Final Cheese Topping

Remove foil, sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top. Return to oven and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until cheese melts and turns golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve And Enjoy

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve piping hot directly from the baking dish for maximum comfort and flavor.

Winning Tips For Chicken And Potato Casserole Nights

  • Opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamy, smooth texture that holds up well during baking.
  • Ensure chicken is cut into uniform pieces to guarantee even cooking and consistent tenderness throughout the casserole.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to help the sauce set and make serving easier without falling apart.
  • Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when making the roux.

Chicken And Potato Casserole Twists To Try

  • Spicy Southwest Casserole: Add diced jalapeños, green chiles, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese. Sprinkle taco seasoning over chicken for a zesty kick.
  • Mediterranean Herb Casserole: Replace thyme with oregano and rosemary. Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced kalamata olives for Greek-inspired flavors.
  • Bacon Loaded Casserole: Crisp chopped bacon pieces between potato layers. Incorporate cooked bacon bits into the cheese sauce and sprinkle more on top before final baking.
  • Ranch-Style Chicken Casserole: Substitute heavy cream with ranch dressing. Mix dried ranch seasoning into the sauce and top with sliced green onions for extra freshness.

Sides That Shine With Chicken Potato Casserole

  • Cozy Family Dinner Delight: Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, creamy flavors. The fresh greens provide a light contrast to the warm, cheesy dish.
  • Rustic Comfort Plate: Pair the casserole with roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots. These colorful sides add nutrition and complement the chicken and potato base.
  • Weekend Brunch Twist: Transform leftovers into a morning meal by topping a slice with a sunny-side-up egg. The runny yolk creates an extra layer of creamy goodness that elevates the entire dish.
  • Potluck Party Pleaser: Bring this casserole to gatherings in a portable dish. Its crowd-pleasing combination of chicken, potatoes, and cheese makes it a guaranteed hit at any community event or family celebration.

Store Chicken And Potato Casserole Like A Pro

  • Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before covering to prevent condensation.
  • Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm in the oven at 350F (175C) for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture if needed.
  • Divide into single-serving containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week, perfect for quick lunches or busy weeknight dinners.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar and Parmesan with other melting cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or monterey jack for variety in flavor.

  • Is it okay to use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Fresh chicken is recommended, but if using frozen chicken, fully thaw it first and pat dry to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, reduce cheese quantity, and add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli to increase nutritional value.

  • What if I don't have fresh thyme?

Dried thyme works perfectly fine. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh thyme called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

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Chicken And Potato Casserole Recipe

Chicken And Potato Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy chicken and potato casserole blends hearty comfort with rich flavor profiles from rural French kitchens. Home cooks discover a satisfying meal that delivers warmth and nostalgia on each delightful forkful.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
  • 1.5 cups (360 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1.5 cups (360 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter
  • 2 tablespoons (16 g) flour (for thickening)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing the surface and set the oven temperature to 375F (190C).
  2. Create a flavor base by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat, then incorporate flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to develop a smooth roux.
  3. Gradually introduce heavy cream and chicken broth into the roux, stirring consistently until the mixture thickens and becomes velvety.
  4. Blend cheddar and Parmesan cheese into the sauce until completely melted, then season with thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
  5. Construct the first layer of the casserole by arranging half of the potato slices across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  6. Distribute half of the onions, minced garlic, and chicken pieces evenly over the potato layer to ensure balanced flavor distribution.
  7. Drizzle approximately half of the creamy cheese sauce across the first layer, ensuring complete coverage.
  8. Repeat the layering process with remaining potatoes, chicken, onions, and garlic, then pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top.
  9. Shield the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, allowing potatoes to become tender and chicken to cook thoroughly.
  10. Remove the foil, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese over the surface, and return to the oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling crust.
  11. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving the hot casserole directly from the baking dish.

Notes

  • Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or milk to reduce calories and make the dish lighter.
  • Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for added nutrients and a different flavor profile.
  • Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process and reduce kitchen stress.
  • Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for an extra flavor kick and subtle heat.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 29 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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