If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken cubes seasoned to perfection with a savory blend of flavors, paired with crispy, golden potatoes tossed in a fragrant spice mix. The magic comes together with melty mozzarella and zingy pepperonchinis, creating layers of texture and taste that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend feast, Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is irresistibly simple yet packed with flavor, making it one of my absolute favorite go-to recipes.

Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building the dish’s character. These simple staples come together in harmony to create the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and tangy notes that dance on your palate.

2 chicken breasts: Provides lean, juicy protein that’s tender when cubed and cooked just right.
4 medium/large potatoes: The hearty base, peeled and cubed for that perfect crispy texture.
Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (for potatoes): Classic seasonings that give the potatoes bold flavor and a beautiful golden color.
1 tablespoon Aus Ju Gravy Mix and half a packet of Ranch seasoning: These bring signature seasoning layers that elevate the chicken’s taste.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a lovely caramelization in the skillet.
Pepperonchinis or banana peppers: The zesty twist that cuts through the richness, giving the dish a subtle tang.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, creamy topping that pulls everything together.

How to Make Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling your potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized cubes for even cooking. Toss these cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika—don’t stress about exact measurements! The goal is to coat each piece thoroughly, ensuring a flavorful crust. Pop them into the air fryer at 400 degrees and cook for about 20 minutes, shaking the basket a few times to promote even browning and crispiness.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the potatoes are crisping up, cube the chicken breasts. In a bowl, coat them with olive oil and combine the Aus Ju Gravy Mix with the Ranch seasoning, making sure each piece is nicely covered. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of butter. Cook the chicken cubes until they’re golden and cooked through, usually about 6-8 minutes. The aroma during this step will already hint at how delicious your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes will be!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Add Toppings

Once the chicken and potatoes are ready, toss them together in the skillet to marry the flavors. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the mixture, then scatter pepperonchinis or banana peppers on top for that signature kick. Place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes just to melt the cheese perfectly—watch closely so it doesn’t burn. Alternatively, you can cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt over the stove if you want to keep things easy.

How to Serve Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can brighten and enhance the dish beautifully. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions to introduce a pop of color and subtle freshness that complements the rich chicken and potatoes wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Although Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is hearty on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables can balance the meal by adding lightness and extra nutrients. Crisp green beans or roasted broccoli work especially well alongside this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed cauliflower. Another idea is to plate it in individual ramekins topped with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again with minimal effort.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags before freezing. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method helps keep the potatoes crispy and the chicken juicy. As a shortcut, you can also microwave it covered, though the texture may be slightly softer.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and rich flavor to your Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they’re cooked thoroughly.

What if I don’t have an air fryer for the potatoes?

No worries at all. You can roast the potatoes in a preheated oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit on a baking sheet, turning them halfway through until golden and crispy (about 30-35 minutes).

Are there substitutes for the Aus Ju Gravy Mix and Ranch seasoning?

You can use store-bought gravy mix and ranch dressing mix, or create your own blends with garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, and spices to mimic the flavors.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese topping altogether. The flavors will still shine.

Is Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes spicy?

The dish has a mild tanginess thanks to the pepperonchinis but is not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount of peppers to suit your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

Mississippi Chicken & Potatoes is one of those dishes you’ll turn to time and again because it’s delicious, comforting, and so easy to pull together. It’s a perfect weeknight winner that feels special with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover why it’s quickly become a favorite in my kitchen and hopefully yours, too!