Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dinner that’s quick to whip up on a busy weeknight, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. This dish is inspired by a family favorite and combines tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and zesty pepperonchinis in a way that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. It’s perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners with friends, or even just those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild enough to please picky eaters while still being exciting for adventurous palates.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy cheese and savory chicken make this dish feel like home.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is that it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 4 medium/large potatoes
• olive oil + salt (along with pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for the potatoes)
• 1 TBSP each of Aus Ju Gravy Mix and Ranch seasoning (half a packet)
• 2 TBSP butter
• Pepperonchinis or banana peppers
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

One of the best things about Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is how adaptable it is. If you’re feeling creative or need to use what you have on hand, consider these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the cheese: Go with cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick of flavor!
• Add some veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Use spicy pepperonchinis or add crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

How to Make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing your potatoes well. Peel them if you prefer (though I like leaving the skin on for extra texture) and cut them into cubes. This step is important because evenly sized pieces will cook uniformly.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

Toss your potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until they’re well-coated. Don’t stress about exact measurements here—just aim for a nice even coating! Seasoning adds flavor that will elevate every bite.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Pop those seasoned potatoes into an air fryer set to 400 degrees for about 20 minutes. Remember to shake them around at least a couple of times during cooking to ensure they crisp up beautifully on all sides.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken

While the potatoes are cooking away, cut your chicken breasts into cubes. Season them with olive oil, half a packet of Aus Ju Gravy mix, and Ranch seasoning. This blend gives your chicken fantastic flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Step 5: Sauté the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt a little butter and add your seasoned chicken cubes. Cooking them until golden brown not only locks in moisture but also creates delicious caramelization.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once both your chicken and potatoes are cooked through, add those crispy potatoes right into the skillet with the chicken. Give everything a good stir so all those flavors mingle together nicely.

Step 7: Add the Cheese and Peppers

Top your mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle some pepperonchinis on top. This adds creaminess and tangy flavor that makes this dish irresistible!

Step 8: Melt That Cheese!

To finish off this delightful meal, broil it in the oven for just a few minutes until that cheese is perfectly melted. Alternatively, if you’re short on time or don’t want to turn on the oven, simply cover it with a lid on low heat until melted.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Now comes my favorite part—serving it up! Dish out generous portions, gather around with loved ones, and enjoy every scrumptious bite of this comforting Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe!

I hope you find as much joy in making—and eating—this dish as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Cooking this comforting dish is a breeze, and with a few tips, you can elevate it even more! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Using medium to large Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes gives the best texture and flavor. They hold up well during cooking and become wonderfully crispy in the air fryer.

• Don’t skimp on seasoning: Generously season both the chicken and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and spices. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, making your dish irresistible!

• Broil for extra flavor: Broiling the dish at the end melts the cheese beautifully while adding a nice golden color. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning; a few minutes is all you need!

• Use fresh pepperonchinis: Fresh or jarred pepperonchinis add a delightful tang that balances the richness of the cheese. They also give your dish an appealing pop of color.

• Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella is delicious, feel free to mix in some cheddar or Monterey Jack for an extra cheesy experience! Each type brings its unique flavor profile that can enhance your dish.

How to Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Serving Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes can be as creative as you want! This hearty meal not only looks good but tastes amazing too. Here are some ideas to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced green onions: Adding sliced green onions provides a mild onion flavor and additional crunch, enhancing both taste and presentation.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, scattering crushed red pepper flakes over your finished dish will give it an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: The vibrant green color and slight crunch of steamed broccoli make for a perfect contrast to the creamy chicken and potatoes.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in vinaigrette adds a refreshing element to your meal.
• Garlic bread: Pairing this dish with garlic bread allows you to soak up extra sauce while providing a deliciously crunchy texture.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a crisp texture that complements the tender chicken and potatoes wonderfully, making for a balanced plate.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal! It’s perfect for family dinners or whenever you crave something cozy and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. Here’s how you can store and reheat it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes:

Can I use different types of potatoes for Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different potato varieties such as sweet potatoes or red potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I customize my Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. Just add them to the skillet with the chicken for a complete meal.

Is Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes a good dish for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is not only delicious but also stores well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

What can I serve with Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you could pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that brings warmth to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!