Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy

Nothing says comfort food quite like Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, and Gravy! This classic dish combines crispy, juicy fried chicken with creamy mashed potatoes smothered in rich, savory gravy. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meal is not only comforting but also deeply satisfying. The contrast between the crunchy fried chicken and the smooth mashed potatoes creates a delightful texture. Plus, the homemade gravy brings everything together, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken:

• 4 chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
• 2 cups buttermilk (or regular milk with 2 tablespoons of vinegar)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for creamier potatoes)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gravy:

• 1/4 cup drippings from fried chicken (or use butter if needed)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or deep fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Potato masher or ricer
• Saucepan for gravy
• Colander

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the Buttermilk Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate Chicken: Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to tenderize the chicken and enhance flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
4. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

1. Make a Roux: In a saucepan, combine the drippings from the fried chicken (or butter if you don’t have enough drippings) over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
2. Add Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: On a plate, serve a generous portion of mashed potatoes topped with gravy. Place a piece of crispy fried chicken on the side.
2. Enjoy!: Dig in and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic meal!

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy

• Chicken Options: You can use a mix of chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts) for variety.
• Mashed Potato Texture: For creamier mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill.
• Gravy Adjustments: If the gravy is too thick, add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy is a timeless comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy chicken, creamy potatoes, and rich gravy, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

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