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Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken Recipe

I made this last night, and I can’t stop thinking about how comforting and delicious it was! This mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken has everything I love about comfort food in one dish.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Mashed potatoes 5-6 cups: Homemade mashed potatoes work best for that creamy texture. If using leftover mashed potatoes, warm them up first.
  • Corn 1 cup: Fresh, frozen, or even canned. If using canned, drain it to avoid excess moisture.
  • Cheddar cheese 1 cup, freshly grated: Always grate your cheese rather than buying pre-shredded. It melts better and ensures a gooey texture.
  • Chicken tenders 8 pieces: Crispy chicken tenders are the star of this dish! You can use homemade or store-bought, but homemade adds a special touch.
  • Gravy as needed: Brown gravy ties everything together. Make it from scratch for that rich depth, or use a packet for convenience.

Method
 

  1. Start by making a batch of mashed potatoes or reheating leftovers. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly along the bottom of your casserole dish. They act as a creamy base that holds all the delicious toppings.
  2. Next, sprinkle a layer of corn over the mashed potatoes. It adds a pop of sweetness and texture. Grate the cheddar cheese and spread it across the corn, creating a layer that melts beautifully when baked.
  3. If using homemade chicken tenders, slice them into bite-sized pieces. This step makes the casserole easier to serve while ensuring every bite is packed with crispy chicken.
  4. Top the casserole with your chicken pieces, arranging them evenly. Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, depending on whether you’re using fresh or frozen chicken. The cheese will melt, and the chicken will crisp up during baking.
  5. While the casserole is baking, heat up the brown gravy in a saucepan. Once the casserole is ready, drizzle the gravy over the top just before serving. It’s the finishing touch that ties all the flavors together.

Notes

  • Use homemade mashed potatoes whenever possible. They make a world of difference in flavor and texture.
  • Don’t skip the step of freshly grating your cheese. It melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • If you have time, make the chicken tenders and gravy from scratch. It adds an unbeatable homemade touch.
  • Avoid overloading the casserole with gravy before baking. Serve it on the side to keep everything from getting too soggy.