Chicken Fried Potatoes

Chicken Fried Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines crispy golden potatoes with tender, seasoned chicken for a meal that satisfies any craving for comfort food. This versatile dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, offering a balance of textures and flavors that make it a hit with both kids and adults. The potatoes are cooked to a crisp perfection, seasoned with a blend of spices, and paired with bite-sized pieces of juicy chicken that have been pan-fried until golden brown. Whether you serve it with eggs for a morning meal or as a side dish with a fresh salad for dinner, Chicken Fried Potatoes is a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

This dish brings together the best of home cooking with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. With just a handful of pantry staples and some fresh chicken and potatoes, you can create a meal that’s filling, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: With simple steps and a single pan, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings.
2. Affordable Ingredients: Potatoes and chicken are cost-effective staples, making this dish budget-friendly.
3. Versatile Flavor Options: You can adapt the seasonings and add vegetables to suit your taste.
4. Crispy and Tender: The contrast between crispy potatoes and juicy chicken makes every bite irresistible.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether serving kids, friends, or family, this dish is guaranteed to be a favorite.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: About 1 1/2 cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4 medium russet potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for crispier chicken)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, for extra indulgence)
• Hot sauce or ketchup (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and Dice: Scrub the potatoes thoroughly and dice them into 1/2-inch cubes. Leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients, or peel them if preferred.
2. Parboil the Potatoes: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the diced potatoes. Boil for 5–7 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Fry the Potatoes

1. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the parboiled potatoes with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Fry Until Crispy: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned potatoes in a single layer and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. For extra crispiness, toss the chicken in 2 tablespoons of flour before cooking.
2. Pan-Fry the Chicken: In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 4: Combine and Finish

1. Combine Chicken and Potatoes: Return the crispy potatoes to the skillet with the chicken. Toss everything together gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for 2–3 minutes.
2. Add Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. If desired, add shredded cheese and let it melt over the hot potatoes and chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, either as a standalone dish or with your favorite sides, such as eggs, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredient Background

Potatoes

Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because of their starchy texture, which becomes wonderfully fluffy inside while crisping up on the outside. If you prefer waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, they work too, though they may yield a slightly different texture.

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are the perfect protein choice for this dish. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, while breasts are leaner and quicker to cook.

Spices

Smoked paprika adds depth and a subtle smokiness, while garlic powder and onion powder enhance the overall flavor. These spices create a well-rounded seasoning blend that complements both the chicken and potatoes.

Technique Tips

1. Crispy Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are dry before frying to prevent steaming. Fry in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan.
2. Even Cooking: Parboiling the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and reduces frying time.
3. Golden Chicken: For crispy chicken, make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken pieces. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
4. Layered Flavors: Fry the chicken in the same skillet used for the potatoes to incorporate the browned bits and residual flavors.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Breakfast Skillet: Serve Chicken Fried Potatoes alongside sunny-side-up eggs for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
2. Loaded Style: Top with sour cream, green onions, and shredded cheese for a loaded potato dish.
3. One-Pan Meal: Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a complete one-skillet meal.
4. Taco-Inspired: Serve with warm tortillas, guacamole, and salsa for a Tex-Mex twist.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Season Generously: Adjust seasonings to taste, especially salt and pepper, to bring out the full flavor of the dish.
2. Control Oil: Use just enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet to prevent sticking without making the dish greasy.
3. Reheat Like a Pro: Reheat leftovers in a skillet to retain the crispy texture, rather than using a microwave.

Recipe Variations

Protein Swaps

• Turkey: Use diced turkey breast or leftover Thanksgiving turkey.
• Beef: Thinly sliced steak or ground beef works well for a heartier version.
• Plant-Based: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

Flavor Twists

• Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a kick of heat.
• Herbaceous: Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill for an herby profile.
• Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a stir-fry-style variation.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Swap the Oil: Use olive oil or avocado oil for a heart-healthy fat alternative.
2. Add Veggies: Increase the vegetable content by including spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers.
3. Sweet Potatoes: Replace russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for added nutrients and natural sweetness.
4. Low-Sodium Option: Reduce salt and use fresh herbs for flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Brunch Buffet: Serve with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee for a brunch spread.
2. Family Dinner: Pair with a fresh green salad and roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
3. Game Day Appetizer: Serve in small bowls with dips like ranch or aioli for a shareable snack.
4. Meal Prep: Portion into meal prep containers with steamed vegetables for easy weekday lunches.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness.
• Sharp Knife: For dicing potatoes and chicken into uniform pieces.
• Mixing Bowls: For seasoning and combining ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use leftover chicken?
   Yes, precooked chicken can be used. Add it to the skillet after the potatoes are crisped and warm it through.
2. What potatoes work best?
   Russet potatoes are ideal, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes work as well.
3. Can I bake instead of fry?
   Yes, toss the potatoes and chicken in oil and seasonings, then bake at 400°F (200°C) on a sheet pan for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway.
4. How do I make this dish spicier?
   Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
5. Can I add vegetables?
   Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or green beans pair well with this dish.
6. How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking?
   Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the potatoes and use enough oil to coat the pan.
7. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
   Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the crispy texture.
8. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, omit the cheese and use dairy-free butter or oil for frying.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Potatoes is a delicious and versatile dish that combines crispy potatoes and juicy chicken into a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and crowd-pleasing flavor, Chicken Fried Potatoes is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your skillet and enjoy the perfect blend of crispy, tender, and flavorful in every bite!

Print