Growing up, my family had a deep love for comfort food. Nothing could bring us to the dinner table faster than the scent of buttery, garlicky mashed potatoes fresh from the oven. But my favorite nights were the ones when my mom took those creamy potatoes and turned them into something extra special—a fully loaded, baked casserole with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tender bites of chicken. It was the kind of meal that made even the coldest evenings feel warm.

This Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Smashed Potatoes recipe brings back all of those cozy memories with an added twist of broccoli for a pop of freshness. It’s rich, creamy, and filled with layers of flavor that come together in the perfect balance of indulgence and wholesomeness. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for something comforting to serve at the dinner table, this dish is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Let’s take a closer look at why this dish works so well, how you can customize it, and the best ways to serve it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Texture – The combination of mashed potatoes, sour cream, and cheese makes every bite melt in your mouth.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The smokiness of the bacon, the sharpness of the cheese, and the subtle spice from paprika come together beautifully.
• Protein-Packed Meal – With chicken and cheese, this dish provides a hearty dose of protein, making it a satisfying meal.
• One-Pan Convenience – Everything is mixed and baked in one dish, making cleanup easy.
• Great for Leftovers – This dish tastes just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or repurposing into lunches.

🛒 Ingredients: What You’ll Need

• 3 pounds red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ – 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 medium-sized broccoli crown (about 2-3 cups bite-size broccoli florets)
• 3 cups cooked, chopped chicken
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheese, divided

🔥 Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Creamy, Cheesy Perfection

1. Boil the Potatoes

Place the red potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.

2. Mash & Season

Add butter, sour cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Steam the Broccoli

While the potatoes cook, steam the broccoli florets until bright green and tender, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Combine the Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.

5. Assemble & Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and crumbled bacon over the top. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a comforting main dish or a hearty side!

🥗 Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: ~28g
• Fat: ~22g
• Carbohydrates: ~32g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sodium: ~600mg

This Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Smashed Potatoes is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and hearty flavors—a family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds!

The Origins of Loaded Potatoes

Loaded potatoes have been a staple in American comfort food for decades, with variations found in steakhouses, barbecue joints, and home kitchens alike. Originally, baked potatoes were topped with simple ingredients like butter, sour cream, and chives. Over time, cooks began adding cheese, bacon, and other toppings, turning them into a full-fledged meal.

This recipe builds on that tradition by combining mashed potatoes with classic baked potato toppings and transforming them into a hearty, oven-baked casserole. The addition of chicken and broccoli makes it more balanced, while the crisp bacon and melted cheese keep the flavors rich and satisfying.

Health Benefits of This Dish

While this dish leans toward indulgence, it also has some surprising nutritional benefits.

1. Protein for Sustained Energy

Chicken and cheese are both excellent sources of protein, helping to keep you full and energized for longer.

2. Broccoli: A Nutrient Powerhouse

Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting immune function and overall health.

3. Red Potatoes: A Healthy Carb Option

Red potatoes provide a good source of fiber and essential nutrients like potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.

4. Balanced Fats

While butter, cheese, and sour cream add richness, they also provide calcium and healthy fats in moderation. Using light versions of these ingredients can reduce the overall calorie count without sacrificing flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Smashed Potatoes

1. As a Standalone Main Dish

This casserole is hearty enough to be a full meal on its own. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a fresh contrast.

2. Alongside a Grilled Protein

If you’re serving a larger meal, this dish pairs well with grilled steak, pork chops, or roasted turkey.

3. With a Side of Roasted Vegetables

Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add an extra dose of nutrition while complementing the creamy potatoes.

4. Topped with a Fried Egg

For a breakfast-style twist, add a fried egg on top of a serving—perfect for brunch!

5. As a Potluck Dish

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser and can be easily transported to gatherings, making it an ideal choice for potlucks or holiday meals.

Ways to Customize This Recipe

1. Make It Spicy

For a kick of heat, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños.

2. Use Different Cheeses

Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a unique flavor.

3. Swap the Meat

Try shredded rotisserie chicken for extra flavor or swap chicken for ground turkey, sausage, or even leftover ham.

4. Go Vegetarian

Leave out the chicken and bacon and replace them with extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

5. Make It Lighter

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and opt for reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories while keeping it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready to serve.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. How do I reheat this dish?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

5. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

While fresh mashed potatoes provide the best texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just prepare them according to package instructions before adding the other ingredients.

6. What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?

Grilled, baked, or shredded rotisserie chicken works well. You can also quickly sauté chicken breasts in olive oil and dice them.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Occasion

Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Smashed Potatoes is more than just a casserole—it’s a warm, inviting meal that brings people together. With its creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply looking for a way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe delivers on both flavor and satisfaction. Plus, with its customizable nature, you can tweak it to suit your personal taste preferences while still keeping it rich and indulgent.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and delicious, give this dish a try. It’s bound to become a favorite in your home—just like it has in mine.

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