Is there anything more comforting than the classic combo of chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy? Imagine that hearty goodness baked into one warm, satisfying dish. This chicken mashed potato casserole with gravy brings together creamy mashed potatoes, tender shredded chicken, and rich, savory gravy in a way that feels like home on a plate. Whether you’re craving a creamy chicken and mashed potato bake for a cozy family dinner or looking to reinvent leftovers into something magical, this recipe delivers. Simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits for chicken mashed potato casserole
- One-dish wonder: This chicken mashed potato casserole with gravy is your all-in-one comfort meal—no need for side dishes unless you want to.
- Easy to customize: Whether you’re craving a cheesy chicken mashed potato casserole or a veggie-loaded version, this base adapts to your taste.
- Family-friendly favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Great for leftovers: Transform last night’s simple chicken nugget casserole with mashed potatoes into today’s lunch—just reheat and enjoy.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for a no-stress dinner later.
It’s cozy, filling, and feels like a hug in casserole form.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make a comforting chicken mashed potato casserole with gravy from scratch:
For the Chicken Layer:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (grilled, roasted, or leftover works great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup milk (or your preferred dairy-free alternative)
- Salt to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for that cheesy chicken mashed potato casserole twist)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Simple ingredients, big flavor—you’re just a few steps away from a cozy dinner everyone will love.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to build your flavorful chicken mashed potato casserole with gravy:
- Boil the Potatoes
Peel and cube the potatoes, then boil in salted water until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Once softened, strain the potatoes, then mash them with butter and a splash of milk until smooth. Add salt to taste for that classic creamy flavor. - Sauté the Chicken Base
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Stir in the shredded chicken, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until heated through and nicely infused with flavor. - Make the Gravy
In a saucepan, melt butter, then whisk in the flour to form a roux. Slowly add the chicken broth while whisking. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season to taste. - Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, layer the chicken mixture, then pour half the gravy over it. Spread mashed potatoes on top and sprinkle with optional corn and cheese. - Bake and Serve
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Drizzle with remaining gravy and garnish with parsley. Serve warm and enjoy every comforting bite!
This step-by-step builds the ultimate chicken casserole with mashed potato topping, full of cozy flavor and texture.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Shortcut dinner: Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for a faster prep.
- Make it loaded: Stir in cooked peas, corn, or top with crispy onions for loaded chicken mashed potatoes.
- Add some crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for extra texture.
- Twist it southern-style: Swap mashed potatoes with biscuit dough to turn it into a country chicken, mashed potatoes & biscuits bake recipe.
- Go cheesy: Mix cheddar into the mashed potatoes or sprinkle over the top for a cheesy chicken mashed potato casserole upgrade.
Little tweaks go a long way—feel free to make this dish your own!
Serving Suggestions
This chicken mashed potato casserole with gravy is satisfying on its own, but a few extras can elevate the experience:
- Try serving it with a side of sautéed green beans or oven-roasted carrots to round out the meal with a touch of freshness.
- Serve alongside a crisp garden salad for a fresh contrast.
- Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread make great gravy-soakers.
Whether you’re serving it as a simple chicken nugget casserole with mashed potatoes for the kids or a cozy dinner centerpiece, it’s sure to please every palate.
Conclusion
This chicken mashed potato casserole with gravy brings all the comfort of a homemade meal into one warm, satisfying dish. It’s simple enough for weeknights, yet cozy and filling enough to impress at family gatherings. From the creamy layers to the savory gravy, every bite delivers familiar flavors in the best way. Keep this one in your rotation—you’ll be glad you did.
FAQs
Where did mashed potatoes and gravy originate from?
Mashed potatoes date back to 18th-century Britain, but pairing them with gravy became popular in North America as a hearty side to meat dishes—especially during holidays and Sunday dinners.
How do you keep mashed potatoes and gravy warm?
Keep them covered in a low oven (around 200°F) or transfer to a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or broth if needed to maintain creaminess.
Why do people add sour cream to mashed potatoes?
Sour cream adds tanginess and a rich, creamy texture that elevates basic mashed potatoes—especially great in casseroles like this one.
What can I eat with mashed potatoes besides gravy?
Mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, sautéed greens, or even a drizzle of herbed butter for a lighter touch.
What is a fun fact about mashed potatoes?
Mashed potatoes were once considered a luxury in Europe—and even inspired the first instant mashed potatoes in the U.S. back in the 1950s!
