Ultimate Comfort Food: Cheesy Baked Potato with Chicken and Broccoli
Looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines all your favorite flavors in one delightful dish? Look no further than this cheesy baked potato with chicken and broccoli recipe. Perfect for those chilly evenings or whenever you’re in need of a hearty, satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Packed with protein, veggies, and melted cheese, it’s a balanced meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. Let’s dive into how you can make this comforting dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, washed and pricked with a fork
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Extra cheese and green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your washed and pricked russet potatoes, rub them with olive oil, and season them with salt and pepper. This not only flavors the potatoes but also helps their skins get that perfect crispy texture.
- Bake: Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about an hour or until they are tender and ready to be filled with goodness.
- Scoop and Mix: Once slightly cooled, cut a slit on the top of each potato. Carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a thin layer to maintain its structure. In a large bowl, mix the potato insides with shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as the next.
- Fill and Bake Again: Spoon this hearty mixture back into the potato skins, top with additional cheese, and bake for another 20 minutes. You’re looking for that cheese to be beautifully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish off by garnishing with more green onions. This not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh, sharp contrast to the creamy, rich filling.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Baked Potato:
- Choosing Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes for their size and fluffy texture. They are ideal for baking and filling.
- Chicken Prep: Use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option. Shredding it finely ensures it blends well with the other ingredients.
- Broccoli Texture: Steam the broccoli until just tender. It will cook further when baked, ensuring it doesn’t turn mushy.
- Serving: Serve this as a main course with a side salad for a complete meal, or cut in half for a satisfying side dish.
Conclusion:
This cheesy baked potato with chicken and broccoli is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace in the form of food. It’s perfect for those nights when you need something hearty and fulfilling. With its combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So the next time you’re in need of some comfort food, remember this delicious, cheesy baked potato recipe. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table.