Potato Chicken Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

Potato Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dining table. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but reminisce about family gatherings where this hearty casserole was the star of the show. Originating from the need to create a filling meal using simple ingredients, this dish has become a beloved staple in many households. The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and a medley of seasonings creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and delicious.

People love Potato Chicken Casserole not only for its rich taste and creamy texture but also for its convenience. It’s a one-dish wonder that makes meal prep a breeze, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, this casserole is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into this comforting recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Prepare the Potatoes**: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly. I like to use a mandoline for even slices, but a sharp knife works just fine too. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices to ensure they cook through. 3. **Cook the Chicken**: If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, you can boil, bake, or sauté it until fully cooked. Once done, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. I usually use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken will work. 4. **Chop the Onion and Garlic**: Dice the onion and mince the garlic. These will add a wonderful flavor base to the casserole. 5. **Gather the Remaining Ingredients**: Measure out the sour cream, chicken broth, shredded cheddar cheese, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and any other ingredients you plan to use. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother.

Making the Casserole Mixture

6. **Sauté the Onion and Garlic**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! 7. **Combine the Chicken and Seasonings**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture will be the heart of your casserole. 8. **Add the Potatoes**: Gently fold in the sliced potatoes into the chicken mixture. If you’re using frozen peas, you can add them at this stage as well. The potatoes will absorb the flavors and create a creamy texture as they cook.

Assembling the Casserole

9. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. 10. **Layer the Mixture**: Pour the chicken and potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure the potatoes are well distributed throughout the mixture. 11. **Add Cheese**: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes. 12. **Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping**: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This will add a nice crunch to the top of your casserole. 13. **Top the Casserole**: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer. This step is optional, but I find it adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy casserole.

Baking the Casserole

14. **Cover and Bake**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. 15. **Uncover and Continue Baking**: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will allow the top to become golden brown and crispy. 16. **Check for Doneness**: The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. You can check the potatoes by inserting a fork into the casserole; they should be soft and easily pierced.

Serving the Casserole

17. **Let it Rest**: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to

Conclusion:

In summary, this Potato Chicken Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to whip up a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love. The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and a medley of seasonings creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this hearty casserole with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, or even swapping out the chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Potato Chicken Casserole a try and make it your own. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Cooking is all about sharing and enjoying, and I can’t wait to see how you put your spin on this delightful dish. Happy cooking! Print