Love Cheesy Potato, Broccoli, and Chicken Layered Bake

 

This comforting casserole brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy potatoes in perfect harmony, all smothered in a delicious cheese sauce!

 

Ingredients

For the chicken layer:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the potato layer:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the broccoli layer:

• 4 cups broccoli florets (about 2 heads)
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the cheese sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup extra cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

1. Prep work:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the chicken:
   • In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Prepare the potato layer:
   • Toss sliced potatoes with melted butter, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
   • Arrange half of the potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish.
4. Pre-cook the broccoli:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, add broccoli and water.
   • Microwave for 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
   • Drain and season with salt and pepper.
5. Make the cheese sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
   • Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
   • Cook, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan until melted.
   • Add garlic powder, mustard powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
6. Assemble the layers:
   • Pour 1/3 of the cheese sauce over the first potato layer.
   • Add all the seasoned chicken in an even layer.
   • Add the remaining potato slices on top of the chicken.
   • Arrange the broccoli florets on top of the potatoes.
   • Pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over everything.
7. Add the topping:
   • Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, extra cheddar, and parsley.
   • Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake:
   • Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
   • Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
   • If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
9. Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Tips and Variations

• You can use rotisserie chicken to save time
• Add sliced mushrooms between layers for extra flavor
• Substitute half the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a twist
• For extra crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end

This Layered Love bake is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. It reheats beautifully and can be frozen in portions for future meals!