Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this casserole?

Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly and save time. Just warm them a bit before assembling so they spread smoothly.

What’s the best way to get the chicken extra crispy?

If using homemade chicken tenders, double coat them with seasoned breading and fry or bake until golden brown before adding to the casserole. Avoid overcrowding the pieces when layering on top to maintain crispness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breading for the chicken tenders and make sure your gravy mix or homemade gravy is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the casserole.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Peas, diced bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms work great. Just be mindful of moisture content so your casserole doesn’t get too watery.

Crispy Chicken Mashed Potatoes - Cozy Comfort Food Favorite

Description

A comforting mashed potato casserole layered with sweet corn, melted cheddar cheese, and topped with crispy chicken tenders, finished with a rich brown gravy. Perfect for an easy and satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Casserole Ingredients

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 packet or homemade)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
Prepare Chicken: If using frozen chicken tenders, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly, which makes slicing easier.
Layer Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. If your mashed potatoes are cold, warm them first for easier spreading.
Add Corn and Cheese: Sprinkle the corn evenly over the mashed potatoes, then top with the freshly grated cheddar cheese.
Slice and Add Chicken: Carefully slice the chicken tenders into pieces of your desired size and arrange them evenly on top of the cheese layer in the casserole dish.
Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes if using frozen chicken tenders, or 15 minutes if using homemade chicken tenders.
Prepare Gravy: While the casserole bakes, prepare the brown gravy on the stovetop according to packet instructions or your homemade recipe.
Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven, drizzle the desired amount of warm brown gravy over the top, and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra crunch, use homemade popcorn chicken in place of chicken tenders.
If mashed potatoes are refrigerated, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling for easier spreading.
Use a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish for the proper layering and baking size.
Feel free to add cooked vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Brown gravy can be substituted with mushroom gravy or a cream gravy for variation.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: fifty three g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg