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
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Slice Chicken and Top: Carefully slice the chicken tenders into your desired piece size and evenly distribute them over the cheese layer.
- 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.
- Prepare Gravy: While the casserole is baking, prepare the brown gravy on the stovetop according to your recipe or package instructions.
- 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
