Name: Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups mashed potatoes (about 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed); 12 oz cooked breaded chicken tenders (about 8-10 tenders); 1 ½ cups frozen or canned corn kernels, drained and heated; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 ½ cups brown gravy (homemade or store-bought); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for mashed potatoes); ⅓ cup milk or cream (for mashed potatoes); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: sliced green onions, freshly chopped parsley, or crumbled bacon for garnish

These Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls are absolutely dreamy-the definition of down-home comfort in every bite! Imagine fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes topped with juicy crispy chicken, a blanket of melty cheddar cheese, sweet corn, and a generous drizzle of savory brown gravy. Each forkful is a symphony of flavors and textures you just can't get enough of.

What makes this the must-try dinner? It's incredibly easy, uses simple ingredients, and brings that cozy, restaurant-style magic right to your kitchen. You can whip up this crowd-pleasing classic on even your busiest nights, and everyone will ask for seconds.

This recipe is my go-to when I need something fast, filling, and guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or serving up comfort to friends, Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls are always a hit. Inspired by my love for both mashed potatoes and all-in-one meals, this dish is pure weeknight joy!

Bowl of creamy mashed potatoes topped with crispy chicken, cheese, corn, and gravy

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Super quick and easy to make-ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknights
Crispy, flavorful chicken paired with creamy potatoes for the ultimate comfort combo
Customizable with your favorite toppings or whatever you have on hand
Family-approved and kid-friendly-everyone will want seconds!

Key Ingredients for Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Boneless Chicken Tenders

The star of the bowl, these provide that craveable crunch and juicy, tender bite. Use pre-cooked breaded tenders for convenience, or you can make your own from scratch by breading and baking or frying chicken breast strips. For a lighter option, opt for grilled or oven-baked chicken instead.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes form the blanket-soft base for this dish. Russet or Yukon gold potatoes make for the fluffiest mash-add plenty of butter and a dash of cream for richness. If you're short on time, store-bought or instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch, though homemade gives unbeatable flavor.

Corn Kernels

Sweet corn adds a wonderful pop of color and sweetness that balances the savory elements. Use canned, frozen (thawed), or fresh corn, depending on availability. Roasted or fire-roasted corn can add an extra layer of flavor if you're feeling adventurous.

Brown Gravy

Rich, savory brown gravy ties all the components together. You can use a quick packet or jarred gravy for ease, but if you have extra time, a homemade pan gravy is divine. For a twist, try a mushroom or country-style white gravy.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

A generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the hot potatoes and chicken, adding creamy richness. Feel free to use a blend of jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little heat.

Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls cooking process

Instructions for Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Mashed Potatoes

Start by peeling, cubing, and boiling your potatoes in salted water until they're fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain well. Mash with butter and milk or cream until silky and smooth. Taste and season generously with salt and black pepper.

Prepare the Chicken Tenders

If using frozen breaded chicken, bake according to package instructions until golden and heated through. For homemade, bread and pan-fry or bake chicken strips until juicy and crispy. Once done, cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Heat the Corn and Gravy

While the potatoes and chicken cook, warm corn in the microwave or on the stove until piping hot. Prepare gravy as directed on the package or warm jarred/homemade gravy in a saucepan, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Bowls

Time to layer! Spoon generous helpings of creamy mashed potatoes into each bowl. Top with hot corn kernels, followed by a handful of chicken pieces. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

Add Gravy and Serve

Drizzle the hot brown gravy all over the top, allowing it to cascade over the cheese and into the potatoes. Garnish with sliced green onions, parsley, or a sprinkle of bacon if you wish. Serve immediately while everything is melty and hot!

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Give your bowls a kick by tossing your chicken with buffalo sauce or dusting it with cayenne before serving. Sprinkle in some sliced jalapeños for extra heat.

Lighter or Gluten-Free

Swap breaded chicken for grilled or rotisserie chicken to lighten things up, and ensure your gravy and chicken breading are gluten-free if needed. You can also use cauliflower mash as a potato alternative.

Veggie-Only Option

Go meatless by swapping the chicken tenders for crispy cauliflower bites or baked tofu nuggets. Add extra veggies like sautéed mushrooms or peas for heartiness.

Loaded Bowl Extravaganza

Pile on extra toppings: crispy bacon bits, green onions, diced tomatoes, or even a fried egg. Let everyone assemble their own custom creation at the table!

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance out the richness. A side of warm dinner rolls or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra gravy. For topping, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds lovely color and freshness.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions in 1-minute bursts, stirring occasionally, until piping hot. For best results, reheat gravy separately and pour over the top just before serving. These bowls can also be frozen (without cheese for best texture) for up to 2 months-thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare all the components in advance and assemble just before serving. Store each element separately in the refrigerator and reheat for best results.

Q: What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

A: Breaded chicken tenders offer that classic crunch, but grilled, rotisserie, or oven-baked chicken also work great. Use whatever is convenient!

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes and jarred gravy?

A: Absolutely. While homemade is best, store-bought mashed potatoes and gravy make this meal even speedier for busy nights.

There's nothing quite like digging into a Chicken Mashed Potato Bowl-the layers of creamy, crispy, cheesy, and savory come together in the most irresistible way! Give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite comfort meal. Don't forget to leave a comment and a rating below to let me know how much you loved it!

★★★★★ 4.80 from 176 ratings