The mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken is a comforting and hearty dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken tenders, and savory brown gravy, all baked together to create a warm, satisfying meal. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings, offering both flavor and convenience. The dish is versatile, allowing for various add-ins like vegetables or cheese, making it a customizable and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.

History and Popularity

Mashed potato casseroles have their roots in traditional comfort food, where the combination of mashed potatoes and various toppings has been a staple for generations. This dish gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in American cuisine, as it provided an easy way to use up leftovers while creating a hearty, one-pan meal. The versatility of the casserole, allowing for various meats, vegetables, and sauces, made it a favorite in households across the country, especially for family dinners and holiday gatherings. Today, it remains a beloved dish, symbolizing warmth and comfort.

Ingredients Overview

Primary Ingredients:

Mashed Potatoes: The base of the casserole, often made from scratch using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture. Homemade mashed potatoes are preferred for their rich flavor and customizable seasoning.
Crispy Chicken Tenders: These can be homemade for added flavor and crispiness, or store-bought for convenience. The chicken adds a crunchy contrast to the soft potatoes.

Corn and Cheddar Cheese: Corn provides a sweet pop of flavor, while cheddar cheese adds richness and a gooey texture when melted.
Brown Gravy: This can be made from scratch or prepared using a packet. Homemade gravy typically offers a deeper, more complex flavor.

Optional Add-ins and Variations:

Vegetable Options: Peas, carrots, and green beans are popular choices for adding more nutrients and color to the casserole.
Cheese Variations: Different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp blue cheese can be used to change the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making the Mashed Potatoes:

Best Potato Types to Use: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, which yields a fluffy and creamy texture.
Proper Boiling and Mashing Techniques: Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into even chunks for uniform cooking. Boil in salted water until tender, then drain and allow excess moisture to evaporate. Mash using a potato masher or ricer, adding butter and warm milk for a smooth consistency.
Importance of Texture and Seasoning: The texture should be creamy yet firm enough to hold its shape in the casserole. Season with salt and pepper, and consider adding garlic or herbs for additional flavor.

Preparing the Crispy Chicken:

Steps for Homemade Chicken Tenders: Coat chicken tenders in seasoned flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch. Fry until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips for Using Frozen Chicken: If using store-bought frozen chicken tenders, bake or air-fry according to package instructions until crispy. Ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the casserole.

Assembling the Casserole:

Layering the Ingredients: Start by spreading an even layer of mashed potatoes in a greased baking dish. Top with a layer of crispy chicken tenders, followed by corn and shredded cheddar cheese.
Baking Instructions and Tips: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden crust on top.

Adding the Final Touches: Gravy and Cheese: Drizzle hot brown gravy over the baked casserole before serving. Add an extra sprinkle of cheese if desired, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for color and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing in Advance:

How to Prepare and Store Ingredients Ahead of Time: You can prepare the mashed potatoes and chicken tenders a day or two ahead. Store the mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the chicken tenders in a separate container to maintain their crispiness.

Assembly and Baking Instructions for Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if the casserole is cold.

Storing Leftovers:

Refrigeration and Freezing Guidelines: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in portions, ensuring it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Tips for Best Results: Reheat refrigerated portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat similarly. To retain the chicken’s crispiness, reheat separately in an air fryer or oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Ideas:

Pairing with Side Dishes: This mashed potato casserole pairs well with light and fresh side dishes like a green salad or sautéed green beans. The freshness of these sides balances the richness of the casserole, creating a well-rounded meal.

Suitable for Different Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a comforting, crowd-pleasing option. It’s also an excellent choice for potlucks and gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and serve.

Presentation Tips:

Making the Casserole Visually Appealing: For an attractive presentation, smooth the top of the mashed potatoes before baking and consider sprinkling extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a golden, crunchy finish.

Garnishing Ideas: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. A drizzle of extra gravy just before serving can also enhance the visual appeal and flavor.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Adjustments

Nutritional Breakdown:

This casserole is a calorie-dense dish, typically ranging from 400 to 600 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients used. It’s rich in carbohydrates from the potatoes, protein from the chicken, and fat from the cheese and gravy. Key vitamins and minerals include calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Adjustments for Special Diets:

Low-Calorie: Use reduced-fat cheese and light gravy, and consider replacing some potatoes with cauliflower.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the gravy and chicken breading are gluten-free, using alternatives like cornstarch and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and cheese with plant-based versions, and use almond or soy milk in the mashed potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a time-saving alternative, but homemade will offer a richer flavor and better texture.

What other meats can be used instead of chicken?
You can substitute the chicken with turkey, ham, or even ground beef for a different flavor profile.

How do I make the casserole crispier?
To enhance crispiness, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.

Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, assemble the casserole and freeze it unbaked. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

How can I reduce the sodium content?
Use low-sodium broth or gravy, and reduce the amount of added salt in the mashed potatoes and chicken seasoning. Opt for low-sodium cheese as well.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Recap of the Recipe:

The mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken is a delicious and comforting dish, perfect for family meals or gatherings. It combines creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, savory gravy, and melted cheese in a flavorful and satisfying way.

Encouragement to Try Variations:

This recipe is highly adaptable. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different meats, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Call to Action:

Try this recipe for your next meal and share your variations or tips with others. Your creativity can inspire new twists on this classic dish.

Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken

Author: Christine

Print Recipe

Description

This mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Creamy mashed potatoes are layered with crunchy chicken tenders, sweet corn, and melted cheddar cheese, then baked to perfection and topped with rich brown gravy. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

For Casserole:

5–6 cups mashed potatoes, my homemade version is portioned for this recipe
1 cup corn
1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly grated

8 Chicken Tenders, frozen may be used
Brown Gravy, you can also use a packet

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

If using frozen chicken tenders, let them sit at room temp for about 5 minutes if you prefer to slice them first, this allows them to soften.
Spread the potatoes on the bottom of a 9 x 13 casserole dish.
Note: If your mashed potatoes are cold, warm them first.

Top with corn and cheese.
Carefully slice the chicken strips into pieces of desired size and top the casserole dish with them.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes if using frozen chicken tenders and 15 minutes for homemade.

Prepare the gravy on the stove top while the casserole finishes baking.
Drizzle desired amount of gravy over the casserole dish and serve!

Notes

For a personalized touch, consider adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different cheeses. This recipe is also great for meal prep—simply assemble ahead of time and bake when ready. If you’re short on time, store-bought mashed potatoes and chicken tenders work well as substitutes.