The aroma of mashed potato casserole with chicken wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that screams comfort food. Fluffy potatoes, creamy goodness, and tender chicken come together in a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this casserole?
- How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Can I freeze leftover Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Imagine gathering around the dinner table with family and friends, laughter echoing as everyone digs into this hearty casserole. It’s the kind of dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart, creating memories that linger long after the last bite is gone. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This mashed potato casserole with chicken is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The rich flavor profile will satisfy even the pickiest eaters
- Its beautiful layers create visual appeal that impresses at any gathering
- Versatile enough for potlucks or cozy family meals, this dish fits every occasion
I remember serving this incredible mashed potato casserole with chicken during a family reunion. My cousin’s eyes lit up as she took her first bite, and suddenly everyone was asking for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Russet Potatoes: Choose firm potatoes for creamy texture; they’re perfect when mashed and layered.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness; feel free to swap with milk for a lighter version.
Shredded Cheese: Use your favorite cheese blend; it melts beautifully and adds flavor.
Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the seasoning better.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess; Greek yogurt works too if you’re feeling adventurous.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings are key; adjust to taste before baking.
Chopped Green Onions: For garnish, these add color and freshness when serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all your ingredients so you can move seamlessly through the recipe without searching for anything halfway through.
Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, cook your seasoned chicken breasts until they’re golden brown on both sides—about 6-8 minutes per side. Let them rest before shredding them into bite-sized pieces.
Boil the Potatoes: While your chicken cools down, peel and chop the russet potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender—approximately 15-20 minutes will do.
Mash with Love!: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy yet still slightly chunky—this adds character!
Assemble Your Casserole: Spread half of the mashed potatoes in a greased baking dish. Layer half of your shredded chicken on top, followed by half of your shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until finished.
Bake It Up!: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Enjoy digging into this delightful masterpiece! The flavors meld beautifully as they bake together; it’s comfort food at its finest!
Now you’ve created a scrumptious mashed potato casserole with chicken that’s sure to impress! Serve it piping hot with some green onions sprinkled on top for extra pop.
With every bite of this rich casserole brimming with creamy potatoes and tender chicken pieces, you will be taken back to those cherished moments around family dinners where laughter reigns supreme!
You Must Know
- This Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food with a hearty protein
- The creamy texture and savory flavors make it the perfect dish for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners
- You’ll want to keep seconds available!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve optimal results, start by cooking the chicken first. While it cools, prepare the mashed potatoes and other ingredients to maximize efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this casserole by adding different vegetables like broccoli or swapping out chicken for turkey. Experimenting keeps meals exciting!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes to retain that creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a smoother potato texture, use a potato ricer instead of a masher
- Avoid overcooking your chicken; it should be juicy but fully cooked
- Adding cheese on top creates an irresistible golden crust!
Sharing this recipe always reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, where we bonded over laughter and mashed potatoes. Those moments made cooking feel like home.
FAQ
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this casserole?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch, but homemade is always creamier.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a delicious gluten-free option.
Can I freeze leftover Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container before freezing for future meals.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. This delightful dish features layers of fluffy mashed potatoes, tender chicken, and melted cheese, creating a hearty meal that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 lbs russet potatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown. Let cool, then shred.
- Peel and chop potatoes; boil in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain.
- Mash potatoes with butter, heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until creamy yet slightly chunky.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the mashed potatoes, followed by half of the chicken and half of the cheese. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
