Easy Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls for Cozy Dinners Recipe

Introduction

These Easy Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls are perfect for cozy dinners when you want comfort food without the fuss. Crispy chicken nuggets, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory gravy come together in a hearty, satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes, warm and creamy
• 8 cooked chicken nuggets
• 1 cup chicken or turkey gravy
• 1/2 cup corn, heated
• 1/2 cup Colby-Jack cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the mashed potatoes. If making from scratch, cook and mash them first to keep warm. If using leftovers, gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally for smoothness.
2. Step 2: Cook the chicken nuggets according to package instructions. For best texture, use an air fryer to get crispy edges. Set cooked nuggets aside and keep warm.
3. Step 3: Warm the gravy in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Heat the corn separately until tender and hot.
4. Step 4: Assemble the bowls by dividing mashed potatoes between two bowls, creating a base. Top each with chicken nuggets, corn, and shredded cheese. Drizzle warm gravy over all, then season with salt, pepper, and parsley if desired.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately while warm and melty. The cheese will soften, and the gravy will bring everything together for a comforting meal.

Tips & Variations

• Use garlic mashed potatoes or creamy slow-cooker mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
• Swap chicken nuggets for baked chicken breast pieces or air-fried breaded chicken strips.
• Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mild mozzarella blend in place of Colby-Jack cheese.
• Add or substitute vegetables like green beans, peas, or roasted carrots for extra color and nutrition.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra gravy if needed to keep the mashed potatoes creamy. Assemble fresh toppings after reheating for best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of nuggets?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken, especially shredded or chopped, works well and can be warmed along with the gravy before assembling the bowls.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute chicken nuggets with crispy tofu, plant-based chicken alternatives, or roasted vegetables, and use vegetarian gravy to keep it meat-free.

Easy Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls for Cozy Dinners Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 86 reviews

Easy Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls are a comforting and quick dinner option featuring creamy mashed potatoes topped with crispy chicken nuggets, sweet corn, melted Colby-Jack cheese, and savory gravy. This cozy meal combines simple ingredients in a hearty bowl perfect for satisfying hunger on busy nights.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (warm and creamy, homemade or leftover)
• 10 cooked chicken nuggets (crispy and golden)
• 1 cup chicken or turkey gravy
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, chopped)

Ingredient Notes and Helpful Swaps

• Mashed potatoes: Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy slow-cooker mashed potatoes for extra flavor
• Chicken: Baked chicken breast pieces or air-fried breaded chicken strips can be used instead of nuggets
• Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mild mozzarella blend work as alternatives
• Vegetables: Green beans, peas, or roasted carrots can replace or complement the corn

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: If making mashed potatoes from scratch, prepare them first to keep warm. For leftovers, gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure smoothness.
2. Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken nuggets following package directions. Using an air fryer is ideal for achieving crispy edges that stay crunchy under the gravy. After cooking, keep the nuggets warm.
3. Heat the Gravy and Corn: Warm the gravy in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Separately, heat the corn in a pan until tender and hot.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the warm mashed potatoes evenly between two bowls as a base. Top each with chicken nuggets, corn, and shredded Colby-Jack cheese. Drizzle the warm gravy over all. Season lightly with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm so the cheese melts softly and the gravy ties all flavors together for a cozy, comforting meal.

Notes

• You can swap chicken nuggets for baked or air-fried chicken strips for a healthier option.
• Feel free to replace corn with other vegetables like green beans or peas to add variety.
• Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time and reduce waste.
• To make this dish gluten-free, ensure your gravy and chicken nuggets are certified gluten-free.
• Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.

Keywords: Chicken mashed potato bowl, easy dinner, chicken nuggets recipe, comfort food, quick meals, creamy mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, cheesy bowls