Mashed Potato Casserole Chicken

This mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken has become a go to comfort food in my kitchen especially on busy evenings when I need something filling and easy Everyone loves the layers of creamy potato sweet corn gooey cheddar and crunchy chicken drizzled with rich brown gravy You can prepare it ahead which makes dinnertime completely stress free

My family first tasted this on a chilly Sunday night after a long day outdoors It instantly earned a spot in our regular meal rotation and even my pickiest eater asks for seconds

Ingredients

• Mashed potatoes: Use 5 to 6 cups homemade for the best texture Yukon Golds yield ultra creamy results
• Corn: One cup of sweet corn brightens everything frozen or canned both work just aim for plump kernels
• Cheddar cheese: Freshly grate a cup for best melt and flavor Look for a sharp variety in the refrigerated cheese section
• Chicken tenders: Eight breaded strips Homemade or frozen are great homemade stays crispier
• Brown gravy: Use homemade or grab a store packet Opt for low sodium if you are looking to control salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Base:

Spread mashed potatoes evenly at the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch casserole dish If made ahead or refrigerated warm them up so they spread smoothly

Layer the Goodness:

Sprinkle corn and then cheddar cheese over the potatoes making sure to get a bit in every corner This step ensures every bite has flavor and texture

Prep and Add Chicken:

If using frozen chicken strips let them sit at room temperature for about five minutes This softens them slightly making them easier to slice Slice into chunks or leave whole for big bites Layer on top of the cheese

Bake to Perfection:

Place the casserole dish uncovered in a four hundred degree Fahrenheit oven If chicken tenders are frozen bake for twenty minutes Homemade or thawed tenders only need about fifteen minutes until the cheese is bubbly and chicken edges are crisp

Prepare and Finish with Gravy:

While the casserole bakes prepare brown gravy on the stovetop Stir gently to avoid lumps When ready drizzle as much as you like across the hot casserole Serve immediately

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One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the crispy chicken on top It always reminds me of weekend family gatherings when we all pitched in to make big dishes that brought everyone together Sharing this casserole always sparks laughter and seconds at my table

Storage tips

Let leftovers cool completely before covering and refrigerating in an airtight container The casserole keeps for up to three days When ready to eat reheat gently in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit covered in foil to prevent drying A quick zap in the microwave also works for individual servings but oven reheating keeps the chicken crispier

Ingredient substitutions

No cheddar Use mozzarella or Colby Jack for a milder flavor Swap corn for peas or mixed vegetables to suit your crowd Gravy can be homemade from pan drippings or quickly mixed from a pantry packet You can even use leftover chicken or rotisserie instead of tenders if you like

Serving suggestions

This casserole is a meal in itself Pair with a quick tossed salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced dinner For gatherings serve it buffet style with extra gravy on the side at holiday brunches it is always a hit on the table

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Cultural and historical context

Layered casseroles like this have roots in classic American comfort food traditions It borrows from diner style meat and potatoes dishes and mid century family recipes where convenience and big flavors ruled the kitchen Over time adding crispy chicken and a cheesy crust made these casseroles even more beloved

Recipe FAQs

→ Can frozen chicken strips be used?

Yes, frozen chicken tenders work well. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you need to slice them.

→ Do the mashed potatoes need to be warmed before baking?

If your mashed potatoes are cold, it's best to warm them slightly before assembling for even baking.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for a quick meal.

→ What can I use if I don't have brown gravy?

You can use packet gravy, homemade, or even swap in chicken gravy if preferred.

→ Is it possible to add extra vegetables?

Yes, peas, green beans, or sautéed mushrooms would be delicious additions to the layers.