Crispy Fried Chicken with Mashed Potatoes

Crispy Fried Chicken with Mashed Potatoes is the definition of comforting, soul-satisfying food. This classic pairing brings together golden, crunchy fried chicken with soft, buttery mashed potatoes, creating a meal that feels nostalgic, indulgent, and absolutely delicious.

The chicken is seasoned perfectly, coated in a crunchy breading, and fried until crispy on the outside yet tender and juicy inside. The creamy mashed potatoes balance everything with smoothness and warmth, making every bite unforgettable.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers bold flavor using simple pantry ingredients. There’s nothing more satisfying than biting into crackling fried chicken followed by silky mashed potatoes. The texture contrast alone is enough to make this dish special.

It’s timeless, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Plus, this recipe allows you to customize seasonings, spice levels, and sides, making it easy to adapt to your taste.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it combines two iconic comfort foods into one complete meal. The frying method ensures tender meat with a perfectly crispy crust every time, while the mashed potatoes bring balance, creaminess, and richness.

It’s approachable, beginner-friendly, and far better than fast-food versions. Once you try homemade fried chicken and mashed potatoes, it instantly becomes a house favorite.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Marination Time (optional but recommended): 1–4 hours
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (with marination)
• Servings: 4 servings
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food
• Approx. Calories: ~850 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken

• 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For the Breading

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For Frying

• Oil for deep frying (vegetable or peanut oil recommended)

For Mashed Potatoes

• 4–5 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup warm milk or heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1–2 garlic cloves (optional, roasted or minced)

Cooking Directions (Summary)

1. Marinate chicken in seasoned buttermilk.
2. Coat chicken in seasoned flour mixture.
3. Fry until golden and crispy.
4. Boil potatoes and mash with butter and milk.
5. Serve together and enjoy.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Mix buttermilk with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, salt,
  and cayenne.
• Add chicken, coat well, cover, and refrigerate 1–4 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

• Combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and cayenne in a shallow bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

• Remove chicken from marinade.
• Dredge each piece in the flour mixture.
• Press firmly so the coating sticks.
• Optional: Dip back into buttermilk and flour again for extra crunch.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

• Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully place coated chicken into the oil.
• Fry 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Peel and cut potatoes into chunks.
2. Boil in salted water 12–15 minutes until tender.
3. Drain and mash with butter and warm milk.
4. Add salt, pepper, and optional garlic.
5. Mix until smooth and fluffy.

How to Serve

Plate warm fried chicken beside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Top potatoes with extra butter or gravy. Serve with:

• Coleslaw
• Cornbread
• Honey butter
• Pickles

Recipe Tips

• Let breaded chicken rest 10 minutes before frying for better crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—frying in batches keeps chicken crispy.
• Use a thermometer to avoid undercooking or burning.

Variations

• Spicy Nashville Style: Brush with hot sauce mixed with butter and cayenne.
• Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch and gluten-free flour blend.
• Oven-Baked Version: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35–40 minutes.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerate: 3–4 days in an airtight container
• Freeze Fried Chicken: Up to 2 months (reheat in oven, not microwave)
• Mashed Potatoes: Best eaten fresh but may freeze up to 1 month

Special Equipment Needed

• Deep fryer or heavy skillet
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Potato masher

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I air-fry the chicken?
Yes—air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: Can I use chicken breast?
Yes, but thighs and drumsticks stay juicier.

Q: Why cornstarch?
It creates a lighter, crispier crust.

Conclusion

Crispy Fried Chicken with Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal—rich, flavorful, crunchy, and satisfying. It brings warmth, nostalgia, and pure enjoyment to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a celebration or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and become a household favorite.