Mashed Potato Casserole With Crispy Chicken Recipe

Sometimes you just need a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, and this cheesy chicken and mashed potato casserole is exactly that.

I love creating hearty comfort food that combines creamy and flavorful elements. My mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken is a delightful balance of textures.

The richness of sour cream and melted butter in the mashed potatoes, combined with shredded cheddar cheese, complements the seasoned chicken and crispy breadcrumb topping beautifully.

Mashed Potato Casserole With Crispy Chicken Recipe Ingredients

• Mashed Potatoes: Rich in carbohydrates, offering comforting texture.
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tangy flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides protein and a sharp, savory taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: Delivers umami and enhances flavor depth.
• Shredded Chicken: High in protein, adds substantive bite.
• Olive Oil: Healthy fats enhance crispiness of breadcrumbs topping.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Mashed Potato Casserole With Crispy Chicken Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (made from about 2 pounds of potatoes)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make this Mashed Potato Casserole With Crispy Chicken Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

3. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the potato mixture.

4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or butter.

5. Spread half of the mashed potato mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

6. Layer the cooked and shredded chicken over the mashed potatoes.

7. Spread the remaining mashed potato mixture evenly over the chicken layer.

8. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until the breadcrumbs are coated.

9. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Once done, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Mashed Potato Casserole With Crispy Chicken Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Large mixing bowl
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. 9×13 inch baking dish
6. Pastry brush (for greasing)
7. Small bowl
8. Whisk or fork (for mixing breadcrumbs)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
  A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you prefer, though fresh mashed potatoes will provide a better texture and flavor.
• Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Q: What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
  A: Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience and flavor, but you can also use any cooked, shredded chicken.
• Q: How can I make the breadcrumbs extra crispy?
  A: To achieve extra crispiness, you can toast the breadcrumbs in a pan with olive oil before sprinkling them over the casserole.
• Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
  A: Absolutely, adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
• Q: Is there a substitute for sour cream?
  A: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Q: How should I store leftovers?
  A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Mashed Potato Casserole With Crispy Chicken Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of sour cream, use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Swap unsalted butter with margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Replace shredded cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Try using rotisserie chicken in place of cooked and shredded chicken for added flavor and convenience.

Pro Tips

1. Potato Texture For the best texture, ensure your mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy before mixing with other ingredients. A potato ricer or food mill can help achieve a lump-free consistency.

2. Cheese Melting To ensure even cheese distribution and melting, bring the shredded cheddar and Parmesan to room temperature before folding them into the potato mixture.

3. Breadcrumb Topping For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Toast them lightly in a skillet with olive oil before topping the casserole for an even crispier finish.

4. Flavor Boost Add a tablespoon of finely chopped chives or green onions to the mashed potato mixture for a mild oniony flavor that complements the garlic and onion powder.

5. Layer Enhancement For added flavor, sprinkle a little extra cheese and a pinch of black pepper over the chicken layer before adding the second half of the mashed potatoes on top. This will create a flavorful cheese pocket in the middle layer.