Cheesy Chicken Sweet Potato Broccoli Casserole

Category: Dinner Recipes

Delicious cheesy chicken sweet potato broccoli casserole topped with melted cheese, ready to serve.

This Cheesy Chicken Sweet Potato Broccoli Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! It brings together tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and fresh broccoli, all smothered in creamy cheese.

I love how colorful and hearty it is, perfect for a family meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies—shhh, don’t tell the kids! 😄

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Sweet Potatoes: They add a lovely sweetness and creamy texture. You can substitute butternut squash or regular potatoes if needed, but sweet potatoes are my favorite for the flavor and nutrition!

Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is ideal, but rotisserie chicken works perfectly too. For a vegetarian option, try using canned chickpeas or cooked lentils instead!

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli retains a nice crunch. You can use frozen as well; just thaw and drain it first to prevent excess moisture.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor. You could use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese is a great alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Milk: Whole or 2% milk creates a creamy sauce. If you’re dairy-free, almond milk or oat milk can work, just choose unsweetened to avoid unwanted flavors.

How Do I Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce?

The cheese sauce is the heart of this casserole, and it’s fairly simple to get it right! Here’s how:

  • Start by making a roux: Melt butter or oil and whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes—this helps thicken your sauce without lumps.
  • Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until it thickens. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Just be patient!
  • Once thickened, add in your spices and cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and smooth. It should be creamy and rich!

Remember to taste as you go and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy your cooking!

Cheesy Chicken Sweet Potato Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Casserole:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Topping:

  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time, so you’re looking at roughly 1 hour total. Set aside some extra time for enjoying it after it cools for a few minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, grab a medium casserole dish and grease it with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Broccoli:

Next, steam your fresh broccoli florets for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be just tender but still vibrant green. Once steamed, drain and set them aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the olive oil or butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it forms a roux and looks lightly golden. Gradually whisk in your milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, which will take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Season the Sauce:

Once your sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and a bit of salt and pepper. Finally, stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

In your greased casserole dish, start layering! Place half of the sliced sweet potatoes evenly on the bottom. Then top with half the cooked chicken and half the steamed broccoli. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over these layers to really bring it all together.

6. Repeat the Layers:

Now, you’ll repeat the layers with the remaining sweet potatoes, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce.

7. Add the Toppings:

For the finishing touch, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese on top. If you love a crunchy texture, add the panko breadcrumbs too!

8. Bake to Perfection:

Pop your casserole in the oven, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

9. Cool and Garnish:

Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes. Before serving, add some freshly chopped parsley on top to make it look pretty and add a little freshness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting, cheesy casserole! It’s a delicious meal that combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and crunchy broccoli all in one dish. Enjoy every bite!

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. Frozen sweet potatoes aren’t as readily available, so it’s best to use fresh or pre-cooked varieties if you can.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Also, ensure your chicken and any pre-packaged ingredients (like breadcrumbs) are certified gluten-free.

Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, and reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

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