If you are searching for a dish that combines comfort food flavors with effortless preparation, look no further than this Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe. This satisfying meal brings together tender, flavorful chicken and perfectly seasoned crispy potatoes topped with melty mozzarella and tangy pepperonchinis for that classic Southern-inspired kick. It’s a harmonious blend of bold seasonings and hearty ingredients that will quickly become a go-to weeknight winner. The combination is deliciously simple yet impressive enough to share with friends and family any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to create layers of flavor, from the savory seasonings coating the potatoes to the rich, buttery chicken. Together, they work in harmony to deliver a golden, crispy, and juicy meal that does not require fuss.
- Chicken breasts: The star protein providing tender and juicy bites that carry flavors beautifully.
- Potatoes: Cubed and seasoned for a crispy exterior and creamy interior.
- Olive oil: Helps in roasting and frying by creating a golden crust on the potatoes and chicken.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle aromatic warmth to both chicken and potatoes.
- Paprika: Gives the potatoes a smoky, mild heat and vibrant color.
- Au Jus Gravy Mix: A unique seasoning blend that infuses the chicken with savory depth.
- Ranch seasoning (half packet): Lends a creamy, herbaceous note that complements the meats and veggies.
- Butter: For cooking the chicken, adding richness and helping achieve a golden sear.
- Pepperonchinis or banana peppers: Bring a tangy, slightly spicy bite that balances the richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts on top to create a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley: A bright garnish that adds color and a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing, peeling, and cubing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them generously with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to ensure each cube is coated evenly. This seasoning blend will give the potatoes their irresistible crispy texture and warm, smoky flavor as they cook.
Step 2: Air Fry the Potatoes
Place the seasoned potatoes in your air fryer and cook at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Be sure to shake the basket occasionally so the potatoes crisp evenly on all sides, turning out perfectly golden and crunchy while tender inside. This method keeps them lighter and quicker than traditional frying.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
While the potatoes are air frying, cube the chicken breasts into small pieces, perfect for a quick, even cook. Toss the chicken in olive oil along with the Au Jus Gravy Mix and half a packet of ranch seasoning. These unique seasonings bring that unforgettable Mississippi-inspired profile right into your kitchen.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces are browned on all sides and cooked through. The butter adds richness and helps develop a beautifully golden crust that seals in all those delicious flavors.
Step 5: Combine Potatoes and Chicken
Add your air-fried potatoes directly into the skillet with the cooked chicken, mixing everything together. This allows the flavors to mingle and the potatoes to absorb the savory juices from the pan, creating a perfectly cohesive dish.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Peppers
Top the skillet mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and scatter pepperonchinis or banana peppers over the top. Transfer the skillet to the broiler and cook just until the cheese melts and begins to bubble, adding a luscious creamy layer with little pops of tang from the peppers.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. This simple addition adds a burst of freshness and color that makes the dish as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
How to Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish for this dish, providing a lovely herbal brightness that balances out the rich cheese and savory chicken. For an extra pop of color and flavor, consider a sprinkle of red chili flakes or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with simple steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or roasted asparagus to add lightness and fresh crunch. You can also serve it alongside warm dinner rolls to soak up any melting cheese and savory juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe in individual cast iron skillets or rustic shallow bowls for a cozy, family-style feel. Another inventive idea is to turn the leftovers into a hearty filling for soft tortillas or pita bread, creating a delicious sandwich or wrap perfect for lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container placed in the refrigerator. The mixture of chicken and potatoes holds up well and should be enjoyed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and safety.
Freezing
If you want to keep the Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe on hand for longer, freeze portions in sealed freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To prevent sogginess, avoid freezing with the cheese melted; add fresh cheese and peppers after thawing if possible.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or a microwave until warmed through. For the best texture, a quick reheat in a skillet over medium heat will help restore crispness to the potatoes and keep the flavors vibrant. Add fresh cheese and pepperonchinis on top when reheating if desired.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes and cook until browned and fully cooked.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Au Jus Gravy Mix?
If you don’t have Au Jus Gravy Mix, a combination of beef bouillon powder with a bit of garlic and onion powder can work well to mimic that rich, savory profile.
Can I bake the potatoes instead of air frying?
Yes, you can roast the potatoes in the oven at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy. Air frying just speeds up the process and yields extra crispiness.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish offers a mild tang and slight heat from the pepperonchinis or banana peppers. If you prefer more spice, feel free to add extra peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Simply replace the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese. The flavor will still be delicious and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe is one of those shining stars that proves how easy it is to create mouthwatering meals with simple ingredients and a handful of spices. Every bite provides that cozy, layered flavor combination that’s perfect for any day you want comfort food without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try making this dish in your own kitchen and see how quickly it becomes a favorite for your family and friends.
Print
Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe features tender chicken breasts paired with perfectly seasoned, crispy air-fried potatoes. The dish is flavored with a blend of Au Jus Gravy Mix and Ranch seasoning, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and tangy pepperonchinis for a delicious Southern-inspired meal. Quick to prepare and boasting a delightful combination of textures, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp Au Jus Gravy Mix
- 1/2 packet Ranch seasoning
- Olive oil (for seasoning)
Potatoes
- 4 medium/large potatoes
- Olive oil (for coating)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Garlic powder (to taste)
- Paprika (to taste)
Toppings & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperonchinis or banana peppers (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Wash, peel, and cube the potatoes evenly. Toss them in olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to ensure full flavor.
- Air Fry Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for about 20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to achieve even crispiness on all sides.
- Season Chicken: While the potatoes are cooking, cube the chicken breasts. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with Au Jus Gravy Mix and Ranch seasoning, tossing to coat thoroughly.
- Cook Chicken: Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and sauté until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done, transfer them into the skillet with the cooked chicken. Gently toss to combine the flavors.
- Add Cheese and Peppers: Top the chicken and potatoes mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and add pepperonchinis or banana peppers evenly across the top.
- Broil to Melt Cheese: Place the skillet under a broiler for 2 to 4 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish, and serve hot for a flavorful and hearty meal.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust seasoning amounts to your taste preference.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- To make the dish spicier, add sliced jalapeños along with or instead of pepperonchinis.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast the potatoes in a 425°F oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Use fresh parsley for the best garnish flavor and appearance; dried parsley will be less vibrant.
