If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal, you’re in for a treat with my homemade chicken mashed potato bowls recipe! I recently made this recipe, and it was an instant hit at home.
The creamy mashed potatoes paired with crispy chicken, corn, and a rich gravy make every bite irresistible.
It’s one of those meals you can whip up quickly but still feels like a cozy indulgence. Plus, if you enjoy creating easy side dishes, you might want to explore this boiled potatoes recipe for added variety!
Ingredients You will Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delicious bowls. Don’t forget to check out my pro tips for why these ingredients work best.
- 2 lbs of potatoes (peeled and cubed) – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for creamy mashed potatoes.
- ½ cup of milk – Use whole milk for a richer flavor.
- 3 tbsp of butter – Enhances the mashed potatoes’ creaminess.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Adds a subtle, savory touch to the potatoes.
- 8 chicken tenders (breaded and cooked) – You can prepare them fresh or use frozen ones for convenience.
- 1 cup of sweet corn (cooked) – Fresh or thawed frozen corn works perfectly.
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – Always grate cheese fresh for the best melt.
- 1½ cups of brown gravy (prepared) – Store-bought or homemade brown gravy can be used.
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
Note: Adjust the ingredient quantities for 4 servings. Feel free to scale the recipe up or down based on your family size.
Variations to Try
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Here are a few variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free: Swap the milk and butter in the mashed potatoes for almond milk and dairy-free butter.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to prepare your own crispy chicken tenders or check labels for gluten-free options.
- Flavor Boosts: Add a sprinkling of fried onions, jalapeños, or chopped parsley for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a plant-based version.
You can also check out these simple dinner recipes here.
Cooking Time
Here’s a breakdown of how long this dish will take to prepare:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You Need
Make sure you have these kitchen tools handy to prepare this recipe seamlessly:
- A large saucepan for boiling potatoes.
- A potato masher or hand mixer for mashing the potatoes.
- Frying pan or oven for cooking the chicken tenders.
- Grater to shred the cheddar cheese.
- Ladle for pouring gravy.
How to Make Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe
This recipe is easy to follow and comes together in just a few steps. Each component adds to a perfectly layered bowl of comfort.
Step 1 – Cook the Potatoes
Peel and cube the potatoes, then place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are soft, which takes about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 2 – Prepare the Chicken Tenders
While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the breaded chicken tenders according to package instructions. You can bake them in the oven or fry them in a pan for that extra crispiness.
Step 3 – Make the Corn and Gravy
Cook the sweet corn on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. At the same time, prepare the brown gravy by whisking it over low heat until smooth and warm.
Step 4 – Assemble the Bowls
Start with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes as your base. Layer the crispy chicken tenders on top, followed by corn and shredded cheddar cheese. Drizzle the brown gravy generously over everything.
Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy
Your chicken mashed potato bowls are ready! Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, savory flavors.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
I’ve made this recipe a few times, and these tips always help me bring out the best in it:
- Use fresh potatoes rather than instant ones. It makes a huge difference in texture and taste.
- When mashing the potatoes, don’t overmix, or they might turn gummy.
- Brush the chicken tenders with melted butter before baking for a golden, crispy finish.
- If you enjoy adding texture, sprinkle some fried onions or crushed crackers on top.
How to Serve Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls
These bowls are meant for comfort, so serve them warm and fresh. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a vibrant touch. For a complete feast, you can pair this dish with hearty options like these smothered baked chicken burritos.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content for a single serving of chicken mashed potato bowls:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fat | 25g |
How to Store Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls
Here’s how you can keep leftovers fresh and tasty:
- Restoring Leftovers: Store each component separately in airtight containers. Consume within three days.
- Freezing: Avoid freezing fully assembled bowls. Freeze the mashed potatoes and chicken separately for up to three months.
- Reheating: Warm the components individually in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together the coziest flavors in one bowl. Here are a few reasons why it’s sure to become your new favorite:
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- You can customize it to suit your dietary preferences.
- Each bite combines savory, creamy, and crispy textures.
- It’s a family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of chicken tenders?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken makes a great substitute. Simply add it to the bowl as a layer instead of the tenders.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare each component in advance and store them separately. Assemble and heat up the bowls when needed.
What’s the best way to make homemade gravy?
Homemade gravy can be made by whisking butter and flour for a roux, then adding chicken broth, seasonings, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
You sure can! Steamed broccoli, green beans, or sautéed mushrooms make excellent additions.
Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Peel and cube the potatoes, then place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are soft, which takes about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the breaded chicken tenders according to package instructions. You can bake them in the oven or fry them in a pan for that extra crispiness.
- Cook the sweet corn on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. At the same time, prepare the brown gravy by whisking it over low heat until smooth and warm.
- Start with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes as your base. Layer the crispy chicken tenders on top, followed by corn and shredded cheddar cheese. Drizzle the brown gravy generously over everything.
- Your chicken mashed potato bowls are ready! Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, savory flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh potatoes rather than instant ones. It makes a huge difference in texture and taste.
- When mashing the potatoes, don’t overmix, or they might turn gummy.
- Brush the chicken tenders with melted butter before baking for a golden, crispy finish.
- If you enjoy adding texture, sprinkle some fried onions or crushed crackers on top.