I recently made the mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken recipe, and I can confidently say it might be my new favorite comfort food! There’s something magical about the creamy mashed potatoes, the crunchy chicken tenders, sweet corn, and gooey cheese all brought together with a topping of rich gravy.
When I took the first bite, it felt like a warm hug on a cold day. And trust me, it’s as easy to whip up as it is flavorful. If you’re looking for another dish to brighten your table, you can also enjoy New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque Recipe for an exciting blend of flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this dish pop with flavor and texture, each ingredient plays an important role. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Mashed Potatoes (5-6 cups)
Use freshly made mashed potatoes for best texture and flavor. The creaminess forms the base of this casserole. Avoid instant mixes if possible. - Corn (1 cup)
Either frozen or canned corn works well. If using canned, drain the liquid for better results. The sweetness adds a lovely contrast to the savory ingredients. - Cheddar Cheese (1 cup)
Freshly grate cheddar blocks for that gooey melt you just can’t get from pre-shredded cheese. - Chicken Tenders (8 pieces)
Homemade tenders give you that extra crunch, but frozen ones work too. Slice them for easier layering. - Brown Gravy (1 cup)
Use homemade gravy for a richer taste, or a quick packet mix if you’re in a pinch.
Note: This recipe serves approximately 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
Variations to Suit Your Taste
Not a fan of one of the ingredients? No problem! Here are some creative variations to tailor the recipe to your needs.
- Dairy-Free:
Substitute regular mashed potatoes with plant-based milk and dairy-free butter. Use a vegan cheese alternative. - Vegetarian:
Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli for a hearty alternative. - Spicy Twist:
Add diced jalapeños into the mashed potatoes for a spicy kick or sprinkle red chili flakes over the casserole before baking. - Herby Upgrade:
Mix fresh rosemary or thyme into the mashed potatoes for an aromatic boost.
A light green salad or roasted vegetables balance the richness of the casserole nicely. Craving something hearty? Try Creamy Beef Taco Soup as a starter!
Cooking Time
Making this casserole is wonderfully quick! Here’s a breakdown of the timing:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s the equipment to make the process easy and smooth:
- 9 x 13-inch Casserole Dish – For baking the casserole evenly.
- Large Mixing Bowl – To combine or prepare mashed potatoes.
- Grater – For shredding fresh cheese.
- Saucepan – If you’re making gravy from scratch.
- Sharp Knife – To slice chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces.
How to Make Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken
Making this dish is straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a flawless casserole:
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by prepping your mashed potatoes. If they have been stored in the refrigerator, warm them up before spreading them into your casserole dish. Room-temperature potatoes spread much easier and provide consistent heating.
Layer the Ingredients
Evenly spread the potatoes on the casserole dish’s base. Sprinkle a layer of sweet corn on top. Next, add the freshly grated cheddar cheese for a gooey factor. If you want to elevate the taste, this is the perfect point to add a pinch of your favorite seasoning!
Add the Crispy Chicken
Slice the chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces and layer them over the cheese. If you’re pressed for time, use frozen tenders directly. They’ll heat through while baking.
Bake Your Casserole
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the assembled casserole for about 15 minutes if using homemade chicken, or 20 minutes if using frozen tenders. While the casserole bakes, prepare the gravy for a finishing drizzle.
Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, drizzle a generous amount of gravy over the casserole. Your mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken is now ready to shine at the dinner table!
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
After making this a few times, I’ve picked up some handy tips to make it absolutely perfect every time:
- Warm the Ingredients:
If your mashed potatoes are cold, take a few minutes to heat them first. This prevents uneven baking. - Avoid Soggy Chicken:
Dab frozen chicken with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before baking. - Shred at Home:
Pre-packaged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting evenly. Grate fresh for that ooey-gooey texture. - Add Crunch:
Sprinkle breadcrumbs or fried onions on top before baking for extra texture.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken
Presentation is key to making this dish irresistible. Here are some creative serving ideas:
- Family Style:
Serve it directly from the casserole dish for a warm, rustic vibe. - Individual Portions:
Scoop it into smaller ramekins for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties. - Garnish:
Add chopped parsley or fresh thyme for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving for this comforting dish:
- Calories: 757
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 111g
- Fat: 21g
How to Store the Dish
This casserole is perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerating:
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. - Freezing:
You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. - Reheating:
Warm in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe ticks all the right boxes when it comes to comfort food. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Easy to Make:
The step-by-step process is simple, even for beginners. - Perfect for Leftovers:
Got extra mashed potatoes? This recipe gives them a new lease of life! - Customizable:
You can tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences. - Family-Friendly:
A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
For more meal options that everyone will enjoy, check out these dinner recipes to elevate your weeknight meals.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can. However, homemade mashed potatoes provide a fresher and creamier texture.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can use mozzarella or Colby Jack for variety.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble it a day before and refrigerate. When you’re ready, simply bake it while the gravy heats.