Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite in my home. It’s packed with flavor from tender chicken, perfectly roasted potatoes, and a delightful kick from pepperonchinis, making it a hit at every meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this dish is sure to bring everyone together around the table.

What I adore about this recipe is how simple it is. You can whip it up with just a few wholesome ingredients, and in less than an hour, your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas. Plus, kids and adults alike can’t resist that cheesy topping! Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: With its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness, everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Versatile: You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Make-ahead option: Prepping the chicken and potatoes in advance makes dinner time even smoother.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating this tasty dish. Luckily, these are all simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry!

• 2 chicken breasts
• 4 medium/large potatoes
• olive oil + salt (and optional: pepper, garlic powder, paprika for 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 parts about cooking is making recipes your own! This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes dish is flexible enough to fit various tastes. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chickpeas instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Change up the veggies: Add bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
• Go spicy: If you enjoy heat, toss in some jalapeños along with the pepperonchinis.
• Cheese lovers unite: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.

How to Make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly. Peeling them is optional—sometimes I like to keep the skins on for extra texture! Cut them into cubes so they cook evenly. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This step adds wonderful flavor before they even hit the air fryer!

Step 2: Air Fry Those Potatoes

Cook your seasoned potato cubes in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. Remember to shake them around at least a couple of times during cooking. This ensures they get nice and crispy all over!

Step 3: Prep the Chicken

While the potatoes are cooking away, cut your chicken breasts into cubes as well. Season them generously with olive oil, half a packet of Aus Ju Gravy mix, and Ranch seasoning. This combination infuses the chicken with robust flavors that complement our dish beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a little butter and then toss in your seasoned chicken cubes. Sauté until they’re cooked through; this should take about 6-8 minutes. The butter adds richness while keeping things juicy!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once both your potatoes and chicken are done cooking, add those crispy potato cubes right into the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together so that each bite gets that delicious mix of flavors.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Broil

Top your mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperonchinis (or banana peppers) for an extra kick. Broil it in the oven for just a few minutes until that cheese melts beautifully—this makes everything ooey-gooey and oh-so-delicious! Alternatively, you can cover it on the stove until melted if you prefer.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve warm right from your skillet! Gather around with family or friends and enjoy every cheesy bite of this comforting Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes dish. It’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to customize. Here are some tips to make your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes even better!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and potatoes will enhance the flavor of your dish, making it more vibrant and satisfying.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the chicken and potatoes for an extra kick. This allows you to tailor the dish to your personal taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking chicken, make sure there’s enough space in the skillet. This helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken, giving it a delightful texture.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Broil for Perfection: Broiling at the end not only melts the cheese but also gives it a lovely golden-brown color, adding visual appeal as well as flavor.

How to Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

When it comes to presenting this comforting dish, a little thought goes a long way! Here are some ideas to make your meal look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
• Sliced Green Onions: These add a crunchy texture and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and chicken.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: The freshness of steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the heartiness of the main dish.
• Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the chicken and potatoes—it’s hard to resist!
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a delicious crunch and complements the flavors of your main dish beautifully.

Enjoy crafting your meal, and don’t forget that sharing it with loved ones makes it all the more special!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your dish for maximum enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken and potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the frozen meal in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can substitute with thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

What sides go well with Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes healthier?

You can reduce the amount of butter and cheese or try using olive oil spray instead. Adding more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini can also boost nutrition!

Can I adjust the spice level in Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

Yes! If you prefer less heat, use fewer pepperonchinis or opt for milder banana peppers. You could also skip adding any extra spices if you want a milder flavor profile.

How long does it take to prepare Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

The total time is around 40 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking. It’s quick enough for any busy weeknight!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe brings joy to your dinner table just as it has mine! It’s a comforting dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor, making it a family favorite. I’m excited for you to give it a try – enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!