If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, an easy chicken and potato casserole is just what you need. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy potatoes and a savory blend of seasonings, all baked to golden perfection.
It’s a one-dish wonder that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for home cooks of all skill levels.
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is versatile enough to suit any taste. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and can be customized with your favorite herbs, veggies, or cheese.
In this post, I’ll walk you through a foolproof recipe, share tips for perfect results, and suggest delicious variations to keep things exciting in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy chicken and potato casserole recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of everyday ingredients.
The creamy potatoes soak up all the savory juices from the chicken, resulting in a rich, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a practical meal. You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, saving precious time on busy days.
The casserole also reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or meal prep. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for various dietary preferences and tastes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
- Grater (if shredding cheese yourself)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the potatoes and onion. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, about 1/8 inch thick. Thinly slice the onion as well. Set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts. Pat dry the chicken and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.
- Layer the casserole. Spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish. Add half of the sliced onions and minced garlic on top. Place the chicken breasts over the vegetables. Layer the remaining potatoes and onions over the chicken.
- Mix the sauce. In a bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chicken broth, and olive oil (or melted butter). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole layers.
- Cover and bake. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the potatoes to soften.
- Add cheese and finish baking. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Rest before serving. Let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish and enjoy. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Tips & Variations
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sour cream mixture for 30 minutes before assembling the casserole.
- Vegetable additions: Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more color and nutrients.
- Cheese variations: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack cheese to change the flavor profile.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary or sage works beautifully in this casserole for an earthy twist.
- Make it creamy: Stir in 1/2 cup of cream cheese or heavy cream in the sauce mixture for an ultra-rich casserole.
- Slow cooker option: Layer ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off approach.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This chicken and potato casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp green salad for some added crunch and nutrition. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad.
Roasted or steamed green beans and garlic bread also complement the dish beautifully.
For a lighter option, serve alongside steamed broccoli or a medley of roasted vegetables. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or extra shredded cheese on the side can elevate the experience.
Looking for more comforting recipes to try? Check out our Baked Chicken and Veggies Recipe Copper Pan Delight or explore vegetarian options like the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.
More Easy Chicken and Potato Casserole Recipes to Try
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Potato Bake
This recipe amps up the garlic flavor with a creamy sauce made from cream cheese, garlic powder, and fresh herbs. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered under tender chicken thighs, then baked until golden and bubbly.
Perfect for garlic lovers!
Cheesy Chicken and Potato Casserole with Spinach
Incorporate fresh spinach between layers for a pop of color and nutrients. This casserole uses a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses for a rich, melty topping that kids and adults will adore alike.
Spicy Southwest Chicken and Potato Casserole
Add a kick to your casserole with chili powder, cumin, and diced jalapeños. Combine with black beans and corn for a southwestern twist that’s hearty and full of flavor.
Top with avocado and cilantro before serving.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Potato Casserole
For those busy days, toss all ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as the potatoes soak up the savory broth.
This set-it-and-forget-it method is a lifesaver on hectic evenings.
Herb and Lemon Chicken Potato Casserole
Brighten up the classic recipe with fresh lemon juice and a mix of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley. The light citrus notes beautifully balance the richness of the potatoes and chicken.
Conclusion
Easy chicken and potato casseroles are a timeless staple that bring comfort and convenience to your dinner table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious meal that satisfies the whole family.
Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with the variations, this dish is a versatile crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.
Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by adding your favorite veggies, spices, or cheeses. And if you’re interested in expanding your recipe collection, be sure to explore other delightful dishes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or hearty soups such as the All Recipes Chicken Rice and Vegetable Soup Ideas.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Easy Chicken and Potato Casserole
Description: A comforting and simple casserole combining tender chicken with hearty potatoes. Perfect for a quick family dinner with minimal prep.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add chicken breasts and cook until lightly browned but not fully cooked.
- In a bowl, mix sour cream, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased casserole dish.
- Place chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
- Spread sautéed onion and garlic evenly over the chicken.
- Pour sour cream mixture over everything.
- Layer remaining potatoes on top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and potatoes are tender.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 25 g
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