Mashed Potatoes With Crispy Baked Chicken

Name: Mashed Potatoes With Crispy Baked Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup of heavy cream; 1/4 cup of butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup of chopped chives (optional); 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick); 1 cup of buttermilk; 1 cup of breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1 teaspoon of paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I absolutely love making Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Baked Chicken. The combination of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes paired with perfectly seasoned, crispy chicken legs always brings comfort to my table. The process might seem straightforward, but it’s the little tricks, like soaking the chicken prior to seasoning, that ensure maximum flavor and crunch. This dish is not only visually appealing but also filled with satisfying textures and tastes that everyone at my dinner table appreciates.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-28T07:33:35.640Z

I remember the first time I made Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Baked Chicken—it was such a hit! I had guests over and wanted to create a dish that looked as good as it tasted. I made sure to whip the potatoes with butter and cream for that rich texture, and I marinated the chicken overnight so every bite burst with flavor.

During the cooking, I realized that letting the chicken rest before serving gave it a juicier, more delicious outcome. Every time I make this recipe, it turns into a delightful experience filled with satisfied smiles around the table, making it a favorite in our household.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy mashed potatoes that are silky smooth
Perfectly crispy chicken that’s golden brown
Comfort food that warms the soul
Easy to prepare, ideal for any weeknight dinner

Mastering the Buttermilk Soak

Soaking the chicken in buttermilk is a crucial step that not only tenderizes the meat but also enhances the overall flavor profile. The acidity in the buttermilk breaks down the proteins, making the chicken juicy and flavorful. Aim to let it soak for a minimum of 30 minutes, but for optimal results, consider overnight soaking. This extra time allows for deeper flavor absorption, leading to a more satisfying bite when you crunch into that crispy coating.

When you’re ready to cook, make sure to shake off any excess buttermilk before coating the chicken. This will ensure that the breadcrumbs adhere properly without becoming soggy. A light touch is key here; you want just enough to achieve a golden crust without over-saturating.

Perfecting Crispy Breadcrumb Coating

The breadcrumb coating is where the magic happens for achieving crispiness. For the best texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs; they are coarser than regular breadcrumbs and create a light, airy crust that bakes up perfectly golden. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can suffice, but be sure to season them well with garlic powder and paprika for added flavor sophistication.

Consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor. If you're looking for a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Just remember to adjust seasoning since these options may have different salt levels.

Serving and Storing Tips

To serve, plate your creamy mashed potatoes and place the crispy chicken legs alongside for a beautiful presentation. A sprinkle of fresh chives over the potatoes not only adds color but also a burst of fresh flavor that complements the rich creaminess perfectly. It’s also great to serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad to add a refreshing contrast to the heavier elements.

If you have leftovers, store the mashed potatoes and chicken in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, bake the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes, while you can reheat the mashed potatoes on the stovetop with a splash of cream to restore their smooth texture.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup of heavy cream
1/4 cup of butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup of chopped chives (optional)

For the Crispy Baked Chicken

4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick)
1 cup of buttermilk
1 cup of breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, soak the chicken legs in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Make the Breadcrumb Coating

In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture.

Bake the Chicken

Place coated chicken on a baking sheet and lightly spray with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until cooked through and crispy.

Cook the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is baking, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

Mash and Season

Add heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in chives if using.

Serve

Plate the mashed potatoes alongside the crispy baked chicken. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add roasted garlic to the mashed potatoes or your favorite herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for the chicken.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe calls for traditional white potatoes, feel free to experiment with Yukon Golds for a richer flavor, or even sweet potatoes for a healthier twist. You can also modify the fat content of the mashed potatoes; for a lighter version, substitute part or all of the heavy cream with chicken broth or low-fat milk. This will give a different texture but keeps the dish on the lighter side.

For the chicken, consider using skinless chicken thighs if you prefer less fat. They may not get as crispy as the legs but will still provide juicy results. Furthermore, marinades using spices like oregano or thyme can be added to the buttermilk to diversify the flavor, making it a versatile dish for any palate.

Elevating Your Meal

Elevate your meal by serving these mashed potatoes with a homemade gravy or a drizzle of your favorite sauce. A simple gravy can be made from the drippings left in the pan after baking the chicken; just add flour and chicken broth, whisking until smooth and heated through. This not only enhances flavor but also adds moisture to the meal.

For a more gourmet experience, consider topping your mashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits or roasted garlic for added depth and a savory touch. These toppings can be prepared while the chicken bakes, making the overall process efficient without overwhelming your kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of legs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time as they usually cook faster than legs.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I use dairy-free alternatives in the mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Use almond milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.