Introduction
Fried chicken with creamy mashed potatoes is a timeless comfort food dish that brings together crispy, golden chicken and rich, smooth mashed potatoes. The contrast between the crunch of the chicken and the velvety texture of the potatoes creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish never fails to please.
This classic pairing combines savory flavors with a touch of indulgence, making it a favorite for both young and old. The combination of seasoned fried chicken and buttery mashed potatoes brings a sense of home-cooked warmth to the table, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
6 bone-in chicken pieces (drumsticks or thighs)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Mashed Potatoes:
1 kg potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp butter
½ cup milk or heavy cream
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Start by preparing the chicken. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside. In another bowl, beat eggs and mix with the buttermilk. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then coat it thoroughly with the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for a crispy finish.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be deep enough to submerge the chicken pieces partially. Once the oil reaches the correct temperature (about 350°F or 175°C), carefully place the chicken pieces into the skillet, working in batches if necessary. Fry the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Make sure to turn the chicken occasionally for even frying.
While the chicken is frying, you can begin preparing the mashed potatoes. Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot.
Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer, adding butter, milk, and cream to create a smooth, creamy texture. For added flavor, you can include a little minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep mashing until the potatoes reach your desired consistency, and make sure the butter has melted completely for a rich, velvety finish.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve the fried chicken alongside the creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful meal that’s sure to satisfy.
How to Make
To start, the key to perfect fried chicken is in the seasoning. Make sure to use a blend of your favorite spices, or you can stick to the basics: paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, and remember, the seasoning in the flour mixture is what helps create that signature crispy coating.
When dipping the chicken into the egg and buttermilk mixture, it’s important to let any excess liquid drip off before coating it in the seasoned flour. This helps the coating adhere better to the chicken, giving it that extra crunch once fried. Don’t rush the dipping process—take your time for a perfect crust.
Another trick for achieving crispy fried chicken is frying it at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the chicken may burn before it cooks through; too cold, and the chicken will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy. Maintaining an oil temperature around 350°F ensures a crispy and evenly cooked result.
For the mashed potatoes, make sure to boil the potatoes in salted water. This helps the potatoes absorb some flavor while cooking. When mashing, start with just butter and milk for the base, then adjust the consistency with more milk or cream, depending on how rich you want the mashed potatoes.
If you prefer extra smooth mashed potatoes, consider using a potato ricer or food mill instead of a masher. This creates an airy, lump-free texture. Adding cream will give the potatoes a velvety richness, but for a lighter version, stick to milk.
If you enjoy a garlicky flavor in your mashed potatoes, try roasting the garlic beforehand. Roasted garlic has a sweet, mellow flavor that blends wonderfully with the creamy potatoes, making the dish even more flavorful.
For extra flavor in your mashed potatoes, you can experiment with adding grated cheese or chopped herbs like chives. A bit of Parmesan or cheddar can add a savory kick, while fresh herbs give a pop of color and freshness.
Tips
For a healthier version of the dish, consider using skinless chicken pieces and baking the chicken instead of frying. Coat the chicken with the same flour mixture, then bake at 400°F for about 30 minutes, turning halfway through.
To save time, you can use pre-made mashed potatoes or even instant potatoes, but homemade mashed potatoes always taste better. If you don’t have time to peel the potatoes, you can leave the skins on for added texture and flavor.
Be sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to redistribute. This helps keep the meat moist and tender. You can also lightly cover the chicken with foil during resting to keep it warm.
For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into the egg mixture and flour mixture before frying. This double coating creates an even thicker, crunchier crust.
You can also experiment with adding spices to the mashed potatoes. A pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper can bring a unique flavor to the dish, giving it a more personalized touch.
When serving, garnish your mashed potatoes with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, vibrant look. A drizzle of gravy on the mashed potatoes can add a comforting, savory element to the meal.
Lastly, don’t forget to serve with your favorite dipping sauces. A tangy hot sauce or honey mustard pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Fried chicken with creamy mashed potatoes is a comforting and satisfying meal that brings joy to the table. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, paired with rich and smooth mashed potatoes, it’s a dish that never disappoints.
Whether you’re enjoying it for a casual family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this recipe offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Take your time with each step, and you’ll create a meal that’s both delicious and memorable.