Description
This Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken is a comforting and hearty dish featuring creamy mashed potatoes layered with sweet corn, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender chicken tenders baked to perfection. Topped with rich brown gravy, it makes a satisfying main course perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 5-6 cups mashed potatoes, homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 8 chicken tenders, homemade or frozen
- Brown gravy, prepared from scratch or packet
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Chicken: If using frozen chicken tenders, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften, making slicing easier if desired.
- Layer Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly at the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish. If your mashed potatoes are cold, warm them slightly before spreading for best texture.
- Add Corn and Cheese: Sprinkle the corn evenly over the mashed potatoes, then top with the grated cheddar cheese.
- Top with Chicken: Carefully slice the chicken tenders into pieces of your preferred size and arrange them evenly over the casserole.
- Bake Casserole: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 20 minutes if using frozen chicken tenders or 15 minutes if using homemade chicken tenders, until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare Gravy: While the casserole is baking, prepare the brown gravy on the stovetop according to package instructions or your homemade recipe.
- Serve: After baking, drizzle the desired amount of warm gravy over the casserole and serve immediately for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Homemade popcorn chicken can be used instead of chicken tenders for a different texture and flavor.
- Warming mashed potatoes before assembling helps create a creamier casserole.
- You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack if preferred.
- Use fresh or frozen corn based on availability; thaw frozen corn before adding.
- Make extra gravy if you prefer your casserole more saucy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
