This Easy Chicken Potato Casserole is a hearty, creamy, and cheesy dish perfect for a comforting family dinner. Made with tender shredded chicken, sliced potatoes, and a rich garlic-infused sauce, this casserole is a simple yet flavorful meal that is great for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick – Uses easy-to-find ingredients and requires minimal prep.
- Comforting and Satisfying – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
- Great for Leftovers – Reheats well and tastes just as good the next day.
- Customizable – Easily adapt this recipe with your favorite vegetables or protein.
- Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- In the greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, chicken, and cheese.
- Pour the prepared cream sauce evenly over the casserole. Cover with foil.
- Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Vegetable Boost – Mix in spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Dairy-Free Option – Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
- Different Cheese Options – Try using mozzarella, Parmesan, or pepper jack for a new twist.
- Low-Carb Version – Replace potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini slices.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole (before or after baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, but you will need to increase the baking time by about 20-25 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best as they hold their shape and cook evenly.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the casserole will be less creamy. You can also use half-and-half as a middle-ground option.
What cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend with a good melting quality is ideal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
They should be fork-tender when pierced. If they are still firm, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Yes, adding seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers in the last 10 minutes of baking creates a crispy topping.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (such as the chicken broth) are gluten-free.
What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of garlic bread pairs well with this casserole.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Potato Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights or meal prepping. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy layers, it’s a family favorite that requires minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying homemade meal!
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