There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy dish that brings comfort to the soul. Picture this: a fluffy layer of mashed potatoes hugging tender chunks of chicken, all swimming in creamy goodness. That’s the essence of Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate, ready to brighten even the most mundane Tuesdays. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Remember those chilly evenings when you just want to curl up with your favorite blanket and savor every bite of something delicious? That’s exactly what this casserole delivers. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even when you need a little self-care after a long day. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone into the kitchen, promising an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful casserole is easy to whip up on busy weeknights, making meal prep simple and enjoyable
- Its rich flavors blend beautifully with the creamy potatoes, creating a dish that’s visually appealing and satisfying
- You can easily customize ingredients based on your pantry staples or preferences
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week!
I still chuckle remembering the first time I made this casserole for my family. My brother took one bite and declared it “life-changing,” which led to an impromptu family debate over whether it should be classified as food or pure happiness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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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.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they add an aromatic kick that enhances everything.
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Mashed Potatoes: Prepare your favorite homemade mash or use store-bought for convenience; both work wonderfully!
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Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella adds creaminess and that gooey texture everyone loves.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still packing in loads of flavor.
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Sour Cream: This ingredient gives that luxurious creaminess and tang that takes it over the top.
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Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Simple seasonings elevate the dish; don’t skimp here!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a large baking dish. Spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations later on.
Prepare your chicken by seasoning it generously with salt, pepper, and paprika for that extra zing! Sauté it in a pan over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through—around 5-7 minutes per side works wonders. The aroma will have you dancing in the kitchen!
Once your chicken’s done, chop it into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine those flavorful chicken bits with mashed potatoes. Stir in shredded cheese and sour cream until everything is well mixed—this is where things get dreamy!
Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly so no potato gets left behind. Pour chicken broth over the top; this keeps everything moist while baking—a trick I learned from my grandma who was basically a culinary wizard.
Sprinkle additional cheese on top because let’s be honest: more cheese equals more joy! Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye out for that beautiful crust forming—it’s like watching magic happen.
Let it cool slightly before serving; trust me, those first bites deserve savoring! Garnish with fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy—the green adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates presentation.
With each forkful of Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner! Enjoy every cheesy bite knowing you’ve created something truly special for yourself or loved ones.
Now gather around the table and enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delightful mashed potato casserole with chicken is comfort food at its finest
- The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a family favorite
- It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, bringing everyone together around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the chicken first; while it simmers, you can whip up the mashed potatoes for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or experiment with different cheeses to personalize your casserole.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve creamy mashed potatoes, use warm milk and butter
- Avoid over-mixing to prevent a gummy texture
- Choose fresh herbs to elevate flavors and brighten your dish
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my family dinners, where laughter and love filled the air, perfectly complemented by this comforting dish.
FAQ
Can I make mashed potato casserole with chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
What type of cheese works best in mashed potato casserole?
Cheddar cheese adds a delightful flavor, but feel free to experiment with others.
How do I prevent my casserole from drying out?
Cover it with foil while baking to retain moisture, then uncover for browning.
Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Mashed Potato Casserole with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes, tender chicken, and melty cheese into a warm, satisfying dish. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. You’ll love how it brings everyone together around the table, making mealtime a joyful occasion. With customizable ingredients and simple steps, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or special celebrations.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté in a pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped chicken with mashed potatoes, garlic, shredded cheese, and sour cream until well mixed.
- Spread the mixture in the prepared baking dish and pour chicken broth over the top.
- Sprinkle additional cheese on top and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, mix in your favorite vegetables like peas or spinach. Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven.
