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Cozy Crispy Chicken Mashed Potato Casserole

cozy crispy chicken mashed potato casserole - featured image
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A comforting casserole featuring a crispy golden chicken topping layered over creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for quick and easy cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought, about 900g / 2 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (about 300g / 10.5 oz)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups mashed potatoes with 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar, 1/4 cup sour cream, and 2 tablespoons softened butter. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the potatoes.
  3. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into the bottom of the casserole dish and smooth the top.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated and crumbly.
  5. Distribute the chicken mixture evenly over the mashed potatoes, pressing lightly to form a crust but not compacting it too much.
  6. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve warm.

Notes

To keep the chicken topping crispy, coat panko breadcrumbs with melted butter or olive oil and avoid packing the topping tightly. If the topping browns too fast, tent with foil halfway through baking. For a more intense cheesy crust, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top 5 minutes before finishing. Mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead and kept covered. Leftovers reheat well in the oven to maintain crispiness. Gluten-free and dairy-free substitutions are easy to make.

Nutrition

Keywords: comfort food, casserole, chicken casserole, mashed potato casserole, crispy chicken, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/cozy-crispy-chicken-mashed-potato-casserole-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/