Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummage through my pantry on a busy weeknight, the missing ingredient for my usual routine strikes me: inspiration. That’s when I whip up a delightful dish of Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes—a quick weeknight dinner that checks all the boxes for my family. This recipe brings together tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and gooey mozzarella, making it not just easy to prepare but also a family-friendly crowd-pleaser. Plus, the hint of tang from pepperoncini peppers helps even the pickiest eaters enjoy their meal. If you’re like me and tired of fast food, this comforting and flavorful meal is a fun twist that makes cooking feel effortless. Curious to give your dinner routine a delicious upgrade? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe! Why is Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: This recipe offers a delicious combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and melty mozzarella that delivers a satisfying flavor experience. Quick Prep Time: Designed for busy weeknights, it takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect go-to when time is tight. Family-Friendly: With its mild spices and gooey cheese, this dish appeals to all ages, ensuring even picky eaters come back for seconds. Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap ingredients or spice levels based on your family’s taste preferences—add more pepperoncinis for heat, or include veggies like green beans for extra nutrition. Comfort Food Vibes: Inspired by Southern cuisine, this dish emanates the warmth of comfort food, reminding you that weeknight dinners can be both easy and delightful. Ready to try more delicious recipes? You’ll love my Garlic Butter Chicken or check out this flavorful Broccoli Chicken Penne. Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Ingredients • Ready to create a cozy weeknight dinner? Here’s what you’ll need! For the Chicken Chicken Breasts – This lean protein is the star; thighs can be used for extra juiciness. Butter – Adds richness to the chicken; feel free to swap with olive oil for a lighter touch. For the Potatoes Medium/Large Potatoes – These provide a hearty base; try sweet potatoes for a unique flavor twist. Olive Oil – Essential for roasting; any neutral oil can work here. Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to your palate. Pepper – A must for seasoning; fresh cracked pepper adds a nice touch. Garlic Powder – Brings a subtle depth; use fresh garlic if you prefer more bite. Paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness; experiment with smoked paprika for extra flavor. For the Flavor Enhancers Au Jus Gravy Mix – This mix gives the dish its delicious umami; consider homemade for a healthier option. Ranch Seasoning – Delivers a tangy kick; skip it for a lighter taste or use fresh herbs. Pepperoncinis or Banana Peppers – These provide acidity and spice; adjust to your heat tolerance. For the Topping Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully over the dish; swap for cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. With these Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes ingredients, you’re on your way to a heartwarming meal that’s sure to stay in your family’s favorites list! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes Start by washing and peeling the medium to large potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, toss the potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated. The seasoning should be vibrant, making your potatoes not only tasty but also visually appealing. Step 2: Cook the Potatoes Place the seasoned potato cubes in an air fryer preheated to 400°F and cook for about 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness. If using an oven, spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast at the same temperature for around 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Step 3: Season the Chicken While the potatoes are cooking, cube the chicken breasts and season them with a drizzle of olive oil, au jus gravy mix, and ranch seasoning. Toss the chicken pieces until they are well coated in the seasoning, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor as you prepare the delicious Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes. Step 4: Cook the Chicken In a skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet, cooking it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. The chicken should have a nice sear and be juicy, which will complement the crispy potatoes beautifully. Step 5: Combine Chicken and Potatoes Once the chicken is cooked, gently combine the crispy potatoes into the skillet with the chicken. Mix these hearty components well, then top them generously with shredded mozzarella cheese and your choice of pepperoncinis. This will add a tangy element and create a deliciously gooey layer once melted. Step 6: Broil for Perfection Set your oven to broil and transfer the skillet to the oven, or keep it on the stovetop if you prefer. Broil for just a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning; this step infuses the dish with a delightful melty texture, making your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes irresistible. Storage Tips for Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool down before sealing it to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Divide into individual portions for easy meals later on. Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This will help preserve the texture of the chicken and potatoes. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses. Enjoy your tasty leftovers safely! Make Ahead Options These Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal effort during the week! You can wash, peel, and cube the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can season the chicken and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish cooking, simply follow the final steps: cook the potatoes and chicken, mix them together, top with mozzarella, and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This preparation not only saves you time but ensures that your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes remain just as flavorful and satisfying! Expert Tips for Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Perfect Your Chicken: Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat and tender. Crispy Potatoes: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer or baking sheet; this ensures each potato cube gets golden brown and crispy instead of steaming. Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to modify the garlic powder and paprika amounts in the seasoning mix to match your family’s taste—it’s all about making the dish your own! Cheese Melting: For the best gooeyness, broil the cheese just until melted and bubbly, watching closely to avoid burning it. One-Skillet Wonder: Use a cast iron skillet for easy stovetop-to-oven transitions, making cleanup a breeze while enhancing flavor. Spice Levels: Experiment with pepperoncinis or swap with jalapeños to kick up the heat in your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes if you enjoy a bit of extra spice! Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Variations Feel free to make these delightful twists on the classic Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes to suit your unique taste and dietary needs. Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding more pepperoncinis or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For those who love a kick, more spice is always a good idea! Veggie Boost: Toss in some frozen peas or green beans alongside the potatoes to add color and nutrition. It’s a fabulous way to sneak in some veggies for the kids—making dinner both fun and nutritious! Sweet Potato Substitution: Swap the medium potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweet touch. This unexpected twist not only adds flavor but also brings great nutritional benefits! Turkey Variation: Substitute chicken with turkey for a lower-fat alternative, or try chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option. It’s a versatile dish that welcomes different proteins! Cheese Swap: Experiment by replacing mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a new flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own unique twist, so have fun discovering your favorite combination! Herbicious Flavor: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added to enhance the flavor. Just a sprinkle can elevate the dish to new heights, creating a warm, inviting aroma. Add Some Crunch: Consider sprinkling some crispy fried onions on top before serving. This adds a satisfying crunch and elevates the comfort factor of the dish! Dash of Citrus: Squeeze a bit of lemon or lime juice over the finished dish for a refreshing twist. The acidity brightens the flavors and makes each bite sparkle. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, you might enjoy my Savory Chicken Flatbread or dive deep into the flavors of Peanut Butter Chicken Stir-Fry. Happy cooking! What to Serve with Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Elevate your weeknight dinner by pairing this comforting dish with delightful sides and beverages that amplify its rich flavors. Crispy Green Beans: Fresh, sautéed green beans provide a crunchy contrast and enhance the meal’s vibrant presentation. Toss them with garlic for extra flavor. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds refreshing acidity that balances the dish’s richness. The crunch of fresh veggies creates a colorful contrast. Buttered Corn: Sweet, buttery corn complements the heartiness of the chicken and potatoes, rounding out the meal with a touch of sweetness that families adore. Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy texture of coleslaw pairs beautifully with the savory elements, while its tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the cheese. Biscuit Basket: Fluffy, warm biscuits are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, inviting everyone to indulge in comfort food goodness. Sweet Tea: A classic Southern drink, sweet tea refreshes your palate between bites, offering a comforting sweetness that harmonizes with the spices of the dish. Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream adds a delightful finish to your meal, with its sweet and tart flavors echoing the southern charm. Moscato Wine: This sweet, bubbly white wine brings a lively effervescence, enhancing the meal’s flavors while giving a fresh, fruity twist to each sip. Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting your potatoes, look for medium to large ones that feel firm with no dark spots or blemishes. As for the chicken, opt for fresh, pink-colored breasts with no signs of discoloration or an unpleasant smell. If you’re using pepperoncinis, choose ones that are bright and firm to the touch for the best flavor. How should I store leftovers from Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes? After enjoying your meal, allow leftovers to cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. I recommend reheating them on the stovetop or in the microwave to best maintain the dish’s texture and flavor. Can I freeze Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes, and how? Of course! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then divide it into individual portions. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. What should I do if the chicken is overcooked? Oh no! If you find your chicken has turned out dry, try adding a splash of broth or your favorite sauce to the skillet when reheating. This will help reintroduce moisture. It’s a great way to salvage the dish and keep it flavorful! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe? Very! If anyone in your household has allergies, it’s important to check the seasoning mixes for potential allergens. The ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix may contain dairy or gluten. You can easily make your version of these seasonings with fresh herbs and spices to control allergens. How can I adjust this recipe for different tastes? The more the merrier! Feel free to spice things up by adding extra pepperoncinis or hot sauce if you enjoy heat. You can substitute the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness, or even add green vegetables like peas or green beans for an added nutritional boost. Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes: A Family Favorite Delight A delicious Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes recipe that combines tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: SouthernCalories: 530 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 lbs Chicken Breasts2 tbsp Butter can swap with olive oilFor the Potatoes4 medium/large Potatoes or sweet potatoes2 tbsp Olive Oil or any neutral oil1 tsp Salt0.5 tsp Pepper fresh cracked preferred1 tsp Garlic Powder or fresh garlic1 tsp Paprika smoked paprika for extra flavorFor the Flavor Enhancers1 packet Au Jus Gravy Mix or homemade1 tbsp Ranch Seasoning or fresh herbs0.5 cups Pepperoncinis or Banana Peppers adjust based on heat toleranceFor the Topping1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese or cheddar/Monterey Jack Equipment Air FryerSkilletMixing bowlBaking sheet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsWash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a mixing bowl.Cook the seasoned potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F for 20 minutes, shaking halfway through, or roast in the oven for about 25 minutes until golden brown.Cube the chicken breasts and season with olive oil, au jus gravy mix, and ranch seasoning. Toss until well coated.Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink.Combine the crispy potatoes with the chicken in the skillet. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoncinis.Broil in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, checking closely to avoid burning. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 530kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Don't overcrowd the air fryer or baking sheet for crispy potatoes. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
