Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is my go-to recipe for busy weeknights and cozy family gatherings. It’s easy to whip up and brings together tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and a kick of flavor from the pepperonchinis. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table!

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that feels like it took hours to prepare — but in reality, it only takes about 40 minutes from start to finish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time.
• One-pan wonder: Minimal clean-up is required since everything cooks in one skillet.
• Family-friendly flavors: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness and zesty peppers.
• Versatile options: Customize with your favorite veggies or seasonings for added flair.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare some components in advance for an even quicker dinner on busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is half the fun! Each one adds its own unique flavor to this delightful dish. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes.

Chicken and Potatoes

• 2 chicken breasts
• 4 medium/large potatoes

Seasonings and Extras

• Olive oil + salt
• Pepper (to taste)
• Garlic powder (to taste)
• Paprika (for potatoes, to taste)
• 1 TBSP Aus Ju Gravy Mix
• 1 TBSP Ranch seasoning (half a packet)
• 2 TBSP butter
• Pepperonchinis or banana peppers (to taste)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

One of the best things about Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas to get you started:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even tofu cubes instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Try using cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a new flavor combination.
• Make it spicy: For those who love heat, add jalapeños along with the pepperonchinis!

How to Make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly. Peeling them is optional; I like to keep the skins on for extra texture! Cut them into bite-sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss your cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Feel free to sprinkle generously; these seasonings bring out the best in your potatoes!

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Place your seasoned potatoes in an air fryer set at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. Remember to shake them around every few minutes so they cook evenly and get nice and crispy.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken

While your potatoes are cooking away, chop your chicken breasts into cubes as well. Season them with olive oil, half a packet of Aus Ju Gravy mix, and Ranch seasoning. This step adds incredible flavor to your chicken!

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little butter. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken cubes. Sauté until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 6-8 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once both your chicken and potatoes are cooked perfectly, add the crispy potatoes to the skillet with chicken. Stir everything together gently so those amazing flavors mingle.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Peppers

Top off your mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperonchinis or banana peppers. The cheese will melt beautifully over everything as it broils.

Step 8: Broil for Perfection

Transfer your skillet under the broiler for just a few minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection! Alternatively, you can cover it on the stove until melted if broiling isn’t an option.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Scoop some onto plates while it’s still warm and watch everyone dig in! This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes dish is sure to bring smiles around your dinner table.

Enjoy this warm meal that brings comfort not just from its flavors but also from creating memories together!

Pro Tips for Making Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Creating the perfect Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for medium to large Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for that fluffy interior and crispy exterior. They hold up beautifully during cooking, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.

• Cut chicken evenly: Ensuring that the chicken pieces are cut into similar sizes helps them cook uniformly. This means no raw bits and perfectly tender chicken throughout!

• Don’t skip the broiling: Broiling at the end is essential for achieving that deliciously gooey melted cheese on top. It adds a beautiful golden color and creamy texture that takes this dish to the next level.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or Italian herbs can give your dish an exciting twist.

• Use fresh pepperonchinis: Fresh or jarred pepperonchinis add a delightful tang and slight heat. They create a wonderful contrast with the creaminess of the cheese and richness of the chicken.

How to Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Presenting your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the flavor profile of the dish.
• Sliced green onions: Adding sliced green onions brings a fresh, crisp bite that complements the warmth of the chicken and potatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This classic side is easy to prepare and adds a pop of color along with essential nutrients. Its mild flavor pairs well with Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes.

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterbalance to the hearty main dish.

• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for that extra touch of comfort. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from your plate!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have an inviting meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your delicious creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! It’s easy to make in advance, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal even on your busiest days. Here’s how to store and reheat it so it stays fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool fully before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, simply microwave on medium power until heated through.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or microwave from frozen using defrost settings, then heat on medium power.
• Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! You can use thighs instead of breasts or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. The flavors will still be delicious!

What are some great sides for Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. Enjoy!

How spicy is Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

The spiciness level can vary based on the type of peppers used. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for banana peppers instead of pepperonchinis.

Can I make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes in advance?

Yes! This recipe stores well and can be made ahead of time for easy meals during the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes dish as much as I do! It’s not only comforting and delicious but also versatile enough to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheated later, I’m sure it will bring smiles around your dinner table. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

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