Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is a delightful one-pan dish that brings together tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and just the right amount of zing from pepperonchinis. It’s a family favorite in our house, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes will surely impress everyone at the table. It’s all about simple ingredients coming together in a way that feels special without requiring much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: You can whip this up in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for those busy nights.
• Family-friendly: With its delicious flavors and cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will love it!
• One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after dinner—who doesn’t love that?
• Versatile: Feel free to customize it based on your pantry staples or preferences.
• Comfort food vibes: The combination of chicken, potatoes, and cheese is sure to warm your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious meal!

• 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 half a packet of Ranch seasoning
• 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! Here are some fun ideas to give this dish your own twist:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option—both work wonderfully!
• Change up the veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or green beans for extra color and nutrition.
• Dairy-free option: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep things light.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the flavors!

How to Make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing your potatoes well. Then peel them if you prefer (though leaving the skin on adds extra fiber!). Cut them into cubes so they cook evenly. Toss these potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This seasoning mix gives them an amazing flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Pop those seasoned potatoes into your air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. Remember to shake them around at least a couple of times while they cook; this ensures they get golden and crispy all over—yum!

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

While your potatoes are cooking away, cut your chicken breasts into cubes. Season them with olive oil along with half a packet of Aus Ju Gravy mix and Ranch seasoning. This step infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt a little butter and add in your seasoned chicken cubes. Sauté until they’re cooked through and golden on all sides. Cooking them this way keeps them juicy and tender—just how we like it!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once both your chicken and potatoes are ready, add those crispy potato cubes into the skillet with your chicken. Stir everything together well so that every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Broil

Now comes the best part! Top your mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and some pepperonchinis for that zesty kick. Broil in the oven for just a few minutes until the cheese melts beautifully. If you don’t want to use the broiler, covering with a lid on the stove works too!

Step 7: Enjoy!

And there you have it—Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes ready to be devoured! Grab a plate (or two) because once you dig in, it’s hard to stop!

Pro Tips for Making Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and potatoes not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a better texture. Always opt for high-quality produce when possible.

• Experiment with seasonings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs! A dash of cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning can give your dish a unique twist that caters to your taste buds.

• Monitor cooking times: Each air fryer and stovetop may vary slightly in temperature. Keep an eye on your potatoes and chicken as they cook to ensure they don’t overcook or dry out.

• Layer flavors wisely: When adding the cheese, consider mixing it in with the chicken and potatoes before broiling. This helps the cheese melt evenly throughout the dish, creating a deliciously cheesy experience.

• Make it ahead: If you’re short on time during the week, you can prepare the chicken and potatoes in advance. Simply reheat them in the skillet before adding cheese for a quick meal!

How to Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Presentation is key when serving Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes, so here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a fun crunch that complements the creamy cheese perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment to mop up any cheesy goodness left on your plate, garlic bread adds a comforting touch.
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable not only offers great nutrition but also provides a lovely contrast in color and texture.
• Caesar salad without anchovies: Crisp romaine lettuce paired with creamy dressing gives a refreshing balance to the heartiness of this main dish.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and seasoning, these roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and pair wonderfully with your flavorful chicken and potatoes.

Now that you have everything you need for an incredible meal, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this comforting dish together!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the dish into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes that might help you along your cooking journey!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to use thighs or tenders if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I serve with Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

How do I customize my Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

You can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions, or swap out the cheese for your favorite kind to make it your own!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting recipe! Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!