Cheesy Italian Chicken, Potato & Veggie Bake

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Cheesy Italian Chicken, Potato & Veggie Bake

Description

This Cheesy Italian Chicken, Potato & Veggie Bake is the ultimate comfort-food casserole. Tender chicken, hearty potatoes, green beans, and broccoli bake together in a rich buttery Italian-seasoned sauce, all finished with melty cheese. It’s a cozy, family-friendly dinner that requires minimal prep and delivers big flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or easy weekend meals.

Servings

4–6 servings

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

1 hour 10 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

  • 3–5 small to medium potatoes, cubed

  • 2 cans green beans, drained

  • 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)

  • 1 package dry Italian dressing mix

  • 1 stick (½ cup) butter, melted

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Garlic powder

  • Paprika

  • Crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prepare

    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

    • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Layer Ingredients

    • Spread cubed chicken evenly in the bottom of the dish.

    • Layer potatoes, green beans, and broccoli evenly on top.

  3. Season & Sauce

    • Sprinkle the dry Italian dressing mix evenly over everything.

    • Drizzle melted butter over the dish.

    • Season lightly with salt, pepper, and any optional spices.

  4. Add Cheese

    • Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.

  5. Bake

    • Cover tightly with foil.

    • Bake for 1 hour 10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

    • Optional: uncover during the last 10 minutes for a more golden, bubbly top.

  6. Serve

    • Let rest for 5 minutes.

    • Stir gently before serving to coat everything in the cheesy, buttery sauce.

Notes

  • Frozen broccoli can be added directly—no need to thaw.

  • Use evenly cubed potatoes to ensure even cooking.

  • If your chicken breasts are thick, cut them smaller for faster, even cooking.

Tips for Best Results

  • Extra cheesy: Add an additional ½ cup cheese during the last 10 minutes.

  • Crispier edges: Uncover earlier and broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

  • Less butter: Use ¼ cup butter + ¼ cup chicken broth as a lighter option.

  • Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and bake when ready.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving)

  • Calories: 480–520 kcal

  • Protein: 34g

  • Carbohydrates: 38g

  • Fat: 26g

  • Fiber: 5g

  • Sodium: 700–850mg

(Nutrition varies depending on cheese type and portion size.)

Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle health and satiety.

  • Balanced Meal: Includes protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates.

  • Calcium-Rich: Cheese supports bone health.

  • Family-Friendly: Mild flavors loved by kids and adults alike.

  • Meal-Prep Ready: Reheats well for leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great and stay extra juicy.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours (add cheese during the last 30 minutes).

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes. Freeze baked or unbaked (without cheese) for up to 2 months.

Q: What cheeses work best?
A: Cheddar for bold flavor, mozzarella for meltiness, or pepper jack for heat.

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