Save This
Mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken is my reliable answer to heartier weeknight dinners when comfort food cravings hit Everyone always goes back for seconds thanks to the layers of creamy potatoes sweet corn melty cheese and the irresistible crunch of baked chicken finished with savory brown gravy
The first time I made this was for my nephew’s birthday and it has become the dish he asks for every family get together Everyone raves about the cozy flavors
Ingredients
- Mashed potatoes: Homemade or store bought Both work but creamy and fluffy potatoes make for the best texture Choose russet potatoes for a classic taste
- Corn: Adds pops of sweetness and color Use fresh or frozen but try to avoid canned corn for best flavor
- Cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smooth cheesy layer Sharp cheddar delivers extra flavor
- Chicken tenders: Homemade fried or baked chicken is my favorite but frozen strips work in a pinch Choose a high quality brand for crispier texture
- Brown gravy: Any rich beef or chicken gravy works A homemade version is delicious but a good quality packet saves time
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Thaw frozen chicken tenders at room temperature for about five minutes This softens them enough for easy slicing If using freshly cooked homemade chicken just set aside
- Layer the Casserole Base:
- Spread warm mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of a nine by thirteen casserole dish Ensure an even thickness for a balanced bite in every scoop
- Add Corn and Cheese:
- Sprinkle a generous layer of corn evenly over the potatoes Top with a fresh blanket of shredded cheddar cheese This layering locks in moisture and flavor
- Top with Chicken:
- Cut chicken strips into bite sized pieces Arrange them across the casserole in a single layer so every serving gets some crispy chicken
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the casserole uncovered in a four hundred degree Fahrenheit oven Bake for about twenty minutes if using frozen tenders or fifteen minutes for homemade This melts the cheese and crisps the chicken
- Make the Gravy:
- While the casserole bakes whisk your gravy together on the stove until smooth and hot Avoid lumpy gravy by stirring constantly
- Drizzle and Serve:
- Pour your desired amount of gravy over the hot casserole right before serving I like to let people drizzle their plates for extra fun
Save This
My favorite ingredient here is always the cheese because it pulls everything together My family loves scooping extra servings right from the dish after Sunday dinner and it is almost always gone by the end of the night
Storing Your Casserole
Once cooled cover the casserole tightly with foil and store in the refrigerator for up to three days It reheats well either in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees or quickly in the microwave for lunches
Ingredient Swaps You Can Try
Swap out the chicken tenders for leftover rotisserie chicken or even homemade popcorn chicken for a fun twist If you do not have cheddar cheese try mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different flavor
Serving Suggestions
This casserole shines with a simple green salad or steamed veggies on the side For extra coziness serve alongside warm dinner rolls to soak up any extra gravy
Cultural and Family Traditions
Mashed potato casseroles have deep roots in American home cooking They were a Sunday dinner favorite in my Midwest family where everyone brought something for the table and this dish often disappeared before anything else
Common Queries
- → Can I use homemade mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes work wonderfully and can be seasoned to your taste for best results.
- → Should I use homemade or frozen chicken tenders?
Both homemade and frozen chicken tenders can be used. Homemade adds flavor, while frozen is convenient.
- → Is fresh or frozen corn better for this dish?
Either works well. Fresh corn adds sweetness, while frozen offers convenience without sacrificing taste.
- → How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish covered in the oven at 350°F until hot.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole ahead and bake just before serving for a quick and easy meal.