Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken is the ultimate comfort food dish, combining layers of creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy chicken tenders, all finished with a savory drizzle of brown gravy. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort food classic that brings together all your favorites in one dish
- Quick and easy to assemble and bake
- Great use for leftover mashed potatoes
- Customizable with toppings and sauces
- Perfect for feeding a family with generous portions
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Can be made ahead of time and baked when ready
- Freezer-friendly option for future meals
- Simple ingredients with minimal prep required
- Pairs well with a variety of sides or salads
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mashed potatoes (5–6 cups, homemade or store-bought)
- Corn (frozen or canned, drained)
- Cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- Chicken tenders (homemade or frozen prepared)
- Brown gravy (homemade or from a packet)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- If using frozen chicken tenders, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly if slicing before baking.
- Spread the mashed potatoes in an even layer across the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Warm the potatoes slightly if they’re cold to ensure even heating during baking.
- Top the mashed potatoes with corn, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Slice the chicken tenders (optional) and place them on top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for:
- 20 minutes if using frozen chicken tenders
- 15 minutes if using homemade or pre-cooked chicken
- While the casserole is baking, prepare the brown gravy on the stovetop according to package directions or your preferred recipe.
- Drizzle the desired amount of gravy over the hot casserole just before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Add bacon bits or green onions on top for extra flavor
- Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella
- Incorporate sautéed onions or mushrooms into the mashed potatoes
- Substitute turkey or rotisserie chicken for a different protein
- Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese
- Add a vegetable layer with steamed broccoli or peas
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat the casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze the assembled casserole (without gravy) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed, then add fresh gravy when serving.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you’re short on time, though homemade offers the best texture and flavor.
Do I need to thaw frozen chicken tenders first?
Not necessarily. Letting them sit for a few minutes makes them easier to slice, but they can be baked directly from frozen.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when ready.
Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of tenders?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great alternative. Simply heat it with the casserole until warmed through.
What kind of corn works best?
Both frozen and canned (drained) corn work well in this dish. Choose based on your preference or availability.
Is the cheese necessary?
Cheese enhances flavor and richness, but it can be omitted or replaced with a dairy-free alternative.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Use plant-based chicken tenders and vegetarian gravy for a meatless version.
What type of gravy works best?
Brown gravy complements the dish well, but feel free to use chicken gravy or a homemade version.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking and add the gravy after reheating for best results.
What should I serve with this casserole?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent sides to balance the meal.
Conclusion
Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken is the perfect one-dish meal that combines rich flavors, comforting textures, and easy preparation. Whether you’re using homemade ingredients or convenient store-bought options, this casserole is a versatile and reliable choice for a satisfying family dinner. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a regular on your weekly menu.
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Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken is the ultimate comfort food dinner! Creamy mashed potatoes layered with sweet corn, melted cheddar, crispy chicken tenders, and brown gravy—this easy, family-friendly casserole is perfect for busy nights and make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
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5-6 cups mashed potatoes (use homemade or pre-made)
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1 cup corn (canned, frozen, or fresh)
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1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
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8 chicken tenders (homemade or frozen chicken strips)
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Brown gravy (homemade or from a packet)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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If using frozen chicken tenders, let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to slightly soften for slicing, if desired.
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Warm the mashed potatoes if cold, then spread them evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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Layer corn and grated cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
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Slice the chicken tenders if desired and place them on top of the casserole.
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Bake uncovered for 20 minutes if using frozen tenders or 15 minutes for homemade ones.
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While baking, prepare the brown gravy on the stovetop.
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Remove casserole from oven, drizzle with desired amount of gravy, and serve hot.
Notes
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Homemade mashed potatoes and chicken tenders elevate the flavor, but frozen options work great for speed.
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Perfect make-ahead meal: Assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
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Pairs well with a green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
