Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that comes together in no time, you’ve come to the right place! This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe is not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavors that will have your family asking for seconds. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.

What makes this dish so special is its wonderful combination of tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and zesty pepperonchinis. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will leave everyone at the table smiling. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The cheesy goodness combined with the mild heat from the pepperonchinis makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup is guaranteed since everything cooks together in one skillet!
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prep the ingredients earlier in the day for an even quicker dinner when you’re ready to eat.
• Endless Variations: Feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences or use what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and uncomplicated, which is why this Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry! Here’s what you need:

For the Chicken and Potatoes

• 2 chicken breasts
• 4 medium/large potatoes
• olive oil + salt (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 things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some sliced jalapeños along with the pepperonchinis!

How to Make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing your potatoes well. Peeling them is optional but adds a nice texture if you prefer them skinless. Cut them into cubes so they cook evenly. This step helps create crispy edges when air-fried!

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

Toss those potato cubes in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Don’t worry about measuring precisely—just use your intuition! This seasoning will make your potatoes flavorful and delicious.

Step 3: Air Fry the Potatoes

Cook your seasoned potatoes in an air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. Remember to shake them around every few minutes for even cooking. The goal here is crispy perfection!

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken

While those potatoes are cooking away, cut your chicken into cubes. Season them generously with olive oil, half a packet of Aus Ju Gravy mix, and Ranch seasoning. This will infuse great flavor into your chicken as it cooks.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt a little butter and add your seasoned chicken. Cook until golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes about 6-8 minutes. The butter adds richness while helping to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once both your chicken and potatoes are done cooking, add those crispy potato cubes to the skillet with your chicken. Stir everything together well; this allows all those lovely flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Peppers

Top off your mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle some sliced pepperonchinis over it all. The cheese will melt into gooey goodness while the peppers add just the right amount of zest.

Step 8: Broil for Perfection

Finally, pop your skillet under the broiler for just a few minutes until that cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly! If you prefer not to use the oven, simply cover with a lid on low heat until melted.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve warm right from the skillet! Sit back and enjoy this scrumptious Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes dish with family or friends—it’s sure to be loved by all!

Pro Tips for Making Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you can elevate your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes to perfection!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully. Their ability to hold up during cooking ensures your meal will have that desired heartiness.

• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Generously season both the chicken and potatoes. The spices not only enhance flavor but also create a delicious crust on the chicken, making every bite a burst of taste.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pepperonchinis or banana peppers will add a vibrant flavor and texture contrast. Using fresh ingredients can really brighten up the dish and make it more appealing.

• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is delicious, feel free to mix it up! Try adding Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique notes that can change the overall taste experience.

• Broil with Care: Keep an eye on your dish while broiling; cheese can melt quickly and turn from perfect to burnt in seconds. A few minutes under the broiler is all it takes for that gooey goodness!

How to Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

This hearty dish is not only comforting but also visually appealing when plated right. Here are some ideas to present this scrumptious meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up each plate.
• Sliced Green Onions: Adding sliced green onions provides a mild crunch and enhances the flavors of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to your rich main dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli is not only healthy but adds some crunch and color to your plate.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra juices from the chicken and potatoes, making every bite even more enjoyable.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus adds elegance to your dinner table with its tender-crisp texture and flavorful touch.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prepping. You can prepare it a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat when you’re ready to eat.

What sides go well with Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

Consider serving this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread too!

How do I spice up my Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs! A hint of cayenne pepper or some Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor even more.

Can I use other types of cheese with Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes?

Yes! While mozzarella is delicious, you could also try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a bit of kick.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe as much as my family does! It’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when you’re looking for something hearty and satisfying. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and sharing love through food. So gather your loved ones around the table, savor every bite, and make wonderful memories together!