Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious Chicken and Potato Casserole:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly.

2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into evenly sized cubes, around ½ to 1-inch in size. This helps them cook evenly during baking.

3. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Sauté until the chicken is browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sautéed chicken, onions, potatoes, sour cream, chicken broth, and cheese. If using, add the frozen peas and carrots for extra color and nutrients.

6. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

7. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.

8. Check Doneness: To check if the casserole is done, insert a fork into the potatoes to ensure they are soft and cooked through.

9. Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This step-by-step guide ensures that you create an incredible, flavorful Chicken and Potato Casserole effortlessly!