Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes is the kind of soul-satisfying classic that never goes out of style. The crispy, golden crust on the chicken, paired with velvety, buttery mashed potatoes, is pure comfort on a plate. This recipe walks you through every flavorful step, offering all the crispy, creamy, savory goodness you crave—whether you’re hosting Sunday supper or simply treating yourself after a long week. Get ready to master the art of this all-time favorite!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes lies in their simplicity—just a handful of humble ingredients, each playing a vital role in flavor, tenderness, and crunch. Don’t be afraid to pick the highest quality you can find, especially when it comes to your chicken and potatoes; this dish is all about letting those elemental tastes shine!

• Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: Go for bone-in, skin-on pieces for juicy meat and maximum crispiness.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and gives it that signature Southern tang.
• Hot Sauce (optional): Adds just the right kiss of heat—use it if you like a gentle kick.
• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that famous golden crust when frying.
• Paprika: Lends color and a subtle smokiness to the flavorful chicken coating.
• Garlic Powder: A little savory magic to level up the crust.
• Salt: Crucial for seasoning both the chicken and potatoes just right.
• Black Pepper: Balances the spices in the dredge mixture and the potatoes.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional): For those who crave a bit of southern fire.
• Vegetable Oil: The key to crunchy, evenly fried chicken—use a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
• Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: The foundation of pillowy mashed potatoes—russets for fluffiness, Yukon Golds for a buttery hue.
• Unsalted Butter: Makes the mash luscious and rich without overpowering.
• Milk or Cream: Brings just the right amount of creaminess—use cream for extra indulgence.
• Salt and Pepper (for potatoes): Flavor enhancers you should never skip—taste as you go!

How to Make Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken pieces into a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour in the buttermilk, then stir in the hot sauce if you like a little kick. Swirl or toss to coat each piece thoroughly, then tuck it all in the fridge. Let the chicken soak up that tangy bath for at least an hour, though overnight is even better for maximum tenderness and flavor. This marinating step is what transforms ordinary Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes into something truly extraordinary.

Step 2: Prepare the Dredge

While your chicken is marinating, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne together in a wide, shallow bowl. This is your secret weapon: a perfectly balanced coating for ultimate crunch. Make sure to mix thoroughly so every bite of chicken gets an even layer of seasoning.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any extra buttermilk drip off. One piece at a time, press the chicken firmly into the seasoned flour, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated. For an extra crispy result, let the dredged chicken rest a few minutes, then dip again into the flour for a double layer—it makes all the difference when making Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes you won’t soon forget!

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 to 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd. Fry for 12 to 15 minutes, turning a few times, until golden brown and crackling, and a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F. Drain the finished pieces on a wire rack or paper towels. The house will smell amazing—get ready for hungry onlookers!

Step 5: Make the Mashed Potatoes

As your chicken fries, it’s time to tackle the mashed potatoes. Add peeled, cubed potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until a fork slides easily through. Drain, then return the potatoes to the hot pot (the residual heat dries them out just right). Add butter and milk or cream, then mash until dreamy and creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper, and taste to make sure they’re perfect.

Step 6: Serve it Up

Spoon a hearty scoop of mashed potatoes onto each plate, then pile high with your crispiest, most golden fried chicken. This, my friend, is Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes at its most comforting! Serve immediately for the finest combination of hot, crunchy chicken and smooth, buttery potatoes.

How to Serve Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Top the mashed potatoes with a sprinkling of fresh chives, scallions, or even crispy fried onions if you’re feeling fancy. A pat of butter on the potatoes is never out of place, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the chicken just before serving adds restaurant-worthy flair.

Side Dishes

Consider pairing Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes with cool, tangy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or simmered green beans. For a classic Southern spread, warm biscuits or pickles on the side help offset the richness and add even more fun to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve mini portions of fried chicken atop a dollop of mashed potatoes in small bowls or cups, letting guests grab and mingle. Or create a “build-your-own” bar with all the fixings so everyone can personalize their plate—guaranteed to impress and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes, pop the chicken in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to soak up moisture, and store the mashed potatoes in a separate sealed container. Both will keep happily in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing

Wrap leftover chicken tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. The chicken will keep in the freezer for up to two months. Mashed potatoes can also be frozen in portioned containers, but add a splash of extra milk or cream before reheating to help restore their creamy texture.

Reheating

To bring fried chicken back to life, warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes so it stays nice and crispy. For mashed potatoes, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in a little milk or butter to refresh their fluffiness.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on chicken gives you maximum flavor and juiciness (and that all-important crispy skin), boneless pieces can be used if you prefer. Just watch the frying time, as boneless cuts will cook a bit faster.

What’s the best way to make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?

The secret is adding warm milk or cream and plenty of butter, then mashing until smooth. For an extra touch, try a hand mixer or potato ricer—and don’t be shy about adding more liquid if needed for your desired texture.

Can I oven-bake the chicken instead of frying?

You can! Bake the dredged chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 30–35 minutes, flipping once. While you’ll miss a bit of that classic fried crust, it’s a lighter option that still pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

After frying, always drain the chicken on a wire rack rather than paper towels. If you’re cooking in batches, keep finished pieces warm in a low oven (200°F) while you finish frying the rest. This way, each bite of Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes stays as crisp and delicious as possible!

What other seasonings can I add to the dredge?

Feel free to play! Onion powder, dried herbs like thyme or oregano, or a dash of smoked paprika can all add personality to your crust. Customizing the flavor profile makes your Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes uniquely yours every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort food at its absolute best, Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Grab those simple ingredients, follow these easy steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that’s crisp, creamy, and pure happiness. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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