Indulge in Cheesy Comfort: a savory bake with creamy potatoes, tender chicken, broccoli, and gooey cheese. Perfect for cozy nights and easy dinners!
Cheesy Comfort: Loaded Potato, Chicken & Broccoli Bake Delight
Welcome to a delectable journey with our "Cheesy Comfort" recipe, a sumptuous bake that's perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. This dish combines tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and fresh broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce, creating a delightful meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Let’s dive into the full recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the bake cooks evenly throughout.
Prepare the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until all the potatoes are well-coated.
Roast the Potatoes: Spread the cubed potatoes evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they start to become tender and golden brown.
Cook the Chicken: While the potatoes are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the diced chicken and cook until it's browned and cooked through. Season with a little more salt and pepper.
Blanch the Broccoli: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes, until they're bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk and flour over medium heat, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, then reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add the sour cream, paprika, and thyme, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, combine the roasted potatoes, cooked chicken, and blanched broccoli. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, stirring gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce.
Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, allow the bake to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Conclusion
There you have it – a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and delight to your table. The "Cheesy Comfort: Loaded Potato, Chicken & Broccoli Bake" is not just an easy-to-make recipe but also one that brings joy and satisfaction with every bite. Perfectly combining flavors and textures, this savory bake is sure to become a family favorite in no time. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete your meal. Enjoy the delicious harmony of ingredients and the soothing comfort of a baked delight. Happy cooking!