Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe
Sink your fork into pure comfort with this irresistible Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe! Imagine golden, seasoned potatoes mingling with juicy, flavor-packed chicken, all smothered in melty mozzarella and zippy pepperoncinis. Every bite hits all the right notes — tangy, savory, cheesy, and just the right kick of heat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend in, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, and it’s exactly the kind of hearty, crowd-pleasing meal you’ll want on repeat. Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is more than just a dish, it’s a celebration of down-home flavors, sure to warm you (and anyone lucky enough to join you at the table) from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can create a meal that feels downright magical. Each component brings something essential, from creamy potato pieces to juicy chicken, and tangy pops of pepper. Let’s break down why every element shines:
- Chicken Breasts: Cut into cubes for fast, even cooking, these form the hearty backbone of the dish and soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon golds work beautifully; peeled and cubed, they’re the perfect vehicle for spices and achieve a crispy, golden texture in the air fryer.
- Olive Oil: This helps potatoes turn gorgeously crisp and brings a layer of richness to both the potatoes and chicken.
- Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika: Don’t skip these — they create a savory base and add depth to the potatoes, with paprika lending beautiful color and a subtle smokiness.
- Aus Ju Gravy Mix (1 TBSP): This deepens the overall savoriness, infusing chicken with a classic, meaty flavor that sets this dish apart.
- Ranch Seasoning (half a packet): The signature tang and herby goodness of ranch is a must for that “Mississippi” touch.
- Butter (2 TBSP): Adds a silky, luscious finish as you cook the chicken, and melds flavors wonderfully.
- Pepperonchinis or Banana Peppers: These add zing and brightness, creating delicious pops of heat that wake up your taste buds.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully over the skillet, making every bite irresistibly cheesy and gooey.
How to Make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes
Step 1: Prep and Season the Potatoes
Start by scrubbing, peeling, and cubing your potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and ensures every forkful picks up all the seasoning. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated—this is where the magic begins, and trust me, your kitchen will already start to smell fantastic.
Step 2: Air Fry the Potatoes
Load up your seasoned potato cubes into the air fryer basket and set it to 400 degrees. Let them cook for about 20 minutes, giving the basket a good shake at least twice during the process. This shaking helps all sides get that golden, crispy finish we crave. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender in the middle and have deep, crispy edges.
Step 3: Cut and Season the Chicken
While the potatoes are working their magic, cut your chicken breasts into cubes. Transfer them to a bowl and mix with a drizzle of olive oil, half a packet of ranch seasoning, and a heaping tablespoon of Aus Ju Gravy mix. Toss until every piece is well coated—the ranch and gravy mix infuse each bite with tons of zesty, savory flavor that’s signature to Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes.
Step 4: Sauté the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your butter. Once it’s melted and foaming, add the seasoned chicken cubes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 7–8 minutes. Don’t rush this step—the butter helps develop a gorgeous, golden crust while keeping the chicken juicy.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Potatoes
Once both the potatoes and chicken are perfectly cooked, add the warm potatoes straight into the skillet with the chicken. Gently stir everything together, letting all the flavors get friendly in the heat. You want some of those flavorful bits from the pan to cling to the potatoes for a flavor-packed finish.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Pepperonchinis, Then Melt
Sprinkle the whole skillet generously with shredded mozzarella cheese, then scatter pepperonchinis or banana peppers over the top for that signature tang. Slip the skillet under the broiler for just a few minutes, watching closely as the cheese melts to gooey perfection. Don’t walk away—the transformation happens quickly! If broiling’s not your thing, simply cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes over low heat until the mozzarella is stretchy and inviting.
How to Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes
Garnishes
To take your plate to the next level, sprinkle on some fresh chopped parsley or green onions for color and a pop of freshness. If you like a little more kick, an extra drizzle of pepperoncini brine or a dusting of extra ranch seasoning on top gives lovely finishing touches that make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes even more special.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty and satisfying all on its own, but if you want to round out your table, try it with tender green beans, a simple garden salad, or some roasted carrots. The bright, crisp sides cut through the richness of the cheesy chicken and potatoes, balancing every plate beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes family-style straight from the skillet for that homey, comforting vibe. For a fun twist, scoop the cheesy mixture into baked potato skins, or pile it into bowls and top with crunchy fried onions. If you’re feeding a crowd, set up a “Mississippi Bar” with all the toppings so everyone can customize their plate!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftovers of Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes store brilliantly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so those second-day servings might taste even better!
Freezing
If you want to save a batch for later, pack cooled Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes into a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to two months. Just be sure to cool it down before sealing, and label clearly to remember the good stuff that’s waiting.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying, or cover and microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot. Stir occasionally for even heating, and if you like, toss in a little extra cheese on top as it warms back up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add even more juiciness and rich flavor to Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes. Just keep in mind they may need a couple extra minutes to cook through, but the results will be just as tasty—if not more so.
Don’t have an air fryer? How do I cook the potatoes?
No problem at all. Toss the potatoes with oil and seasonings, spread them on a baking sheet, and roast in a 425-degree oven for about 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until they’re golden and crisp.
What’s the best way to melt the cheese if I don’t have a broiler?
Simply cover your skillet with a lid once everything is assembled, keep it over low heat, and let the steam melt the mozzarella until it’s perfectly gooey. You’ll still get that irresistible stretchy cheese pull!
Is there a substitute for Aus Ju Gravy mix?
If you can’t find Aus Ju Gravy mix, try using a brown gravy mix packet or even a splash of beef broth with a pinch of garlic powder and onion powder for a hint of that deep, savory flavor. It won’t be quite the same, but your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes will still shine.
Can I make this dish ahead for meal prep?
Definitely! Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes hold up wonderfully for meal prep. Store portions in sealed containers and refrigerate; just reheat when ready to eat and enjoy flavorful lunches or quick dinners all week long.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, there’s no cozier way to end a busy day than digging into a big plate of Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers all the flavor and comfort you crave with hardly any fuss. Trust me—give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new weeknight favorite!
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Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes that combines tender chicken, flavorful potatoes, and gooey melted cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
For Potatoes:
- 4 medium/large potatoes, washed, peeled, and cubed
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, to taste
For Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 TBSP Aus Ju Gravy Mix
- 1 TBSP Ranch seasoning (half a packet)
- 2 TBSP butter
- Pepperoncinis or banana peppers, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Toss cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook in an air fryer at 400°F for about 20 minutes, shaking occasionally.
- Cook Chicken: Season chicken with olive oil, Aus Ju Gravy Mix, and Ranch seasoning. Cook in a skillet with butter over medium-high heat.
- Combine: Once cooked, add potatoes to the skillet with chicken. Mix well.
- Finish: Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoncinis. Broil in the oven briefly until cheese melts. Alternatively, cover and let sit to melt the cheese.
- Serve: Enjoy your delicious Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes!
Notes
- Adjust seasonings to personal preference
- Feel free to customize with additional toppings like crispy bacon or green onions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fry, Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Mississippi Chicken, Potatoes, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe
