Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken is a comforting and hearty dish that combines creamy potatoes, sweet corn, melted cheddar, and crispy chicken tenders all baked to perfection. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 5-6 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 8 chicken tenders (homemade or frozen)
• Brown gravy (homemade or packet)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: If using frozen chicken tenders and planning to slice them before baking, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.
3. Step 3: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. If the potatoes are cold, warm them before spreading.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the corn and then the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
5. Step 5: Carefully slice the chicken tenders into pieces of your desired size, then arrange them on top of the cheese layer.
6. Step 6: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 minutes if using frozen chicken tenders, or 15 minutes if using homemade chicken.
7. Step 7: While the casserole bakes, prepare the brown gravy on the stovetop according to your recipe or package instructions.
8. Step 8: Once baked, drizzle the desired amount of gravy over the casserole and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add sautéed onions or garlic to the mashed potatoes before assembling.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy taste or mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Substitute corn with peas or green beans if preferred.
• Try topping with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking for added crunch.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to retain crispiness, or use a microwave for quicker reheating, though the chicken may lose some crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes work well for convenience. Just ensure they are well-prepared and warm before assembling the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge.

Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.7 from 57 reviews

• Author: Noah
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken combines creamy homemade mashed potatoes layered with sweet corn, melted cheddar cheese, and tender chicken tenders baked to perfection. Topped with rich brown gravy, this comforting casserole is perfect for a hearty family meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mashed Potato Base

• 5–6 cups mashed potatoes (preferably homemade)
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese

Chicken Topping

• 8 chicken tenders (homemade or frozen)

Gravy

• Brown gravy (homemade or packet)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Prepare Chicken: If you are using frozen chicken tenders, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly, which makes slicing easier.
3. Spread Mashed Potatoes: Evenly spread the mashed potatoes on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. If your mashed potatoes are cold, warm them beforehand for best layering.
4. Add Corn and Cheese: Sprinkle the corn evenly over the mashed potatoes, followed by the freshly grated cheddar cheese to add a gooey, flavorful layer.
5. Slice Chicken and Top: Carefully slice the chicken tenders into your desired piece size and evenly distribute them over the cheese layer.
6. Bake Casserole: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes if using frozen chicken tenders, or 15 minutes if using homemade chicken, allowing everything to heat through and the cheese to melt.
7. Prepare Gravy: While the casserole is baking, prepare the brown gravy on the stovetop according to your recipe or package instructions.
8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, drizzle the desired amount of warm gravy over the top, and serve immediately for a comforting, hearty meal.

Notes

• Warming cold mashed potatoes before layering helps them spread more evenly in the casserole dish.
• Homemade chicken tenders generally require less baking time than frozen ones.
• You can customize the cheese type according to preference; Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be good alternatives.
• Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure the gravy and chicken tenders are gluten-free.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mashed potato casserole, crispy chicken, cheesy casserole, comfort food, baked casserole