If you’re in the mood for something packed with bold flavors and comforting textures, this Blackened Chicken with Mashed Potatoes is just what you need. Juicy, spiced chicken is seared to perfection, creating a smoky, flavorful crust, and paired with creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for dinner any night of the week and is sure to impress with its restaurant-quality taste.
Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s get started!
Blackened Chicken with Mashed Potatoes – Bold, Flavorful, and Comforting
Savor the bold flavors of Blackened Chicken with Mashed Potatoes! Juicy, spicy chicken served alongside creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredients
For the Blackened Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper adjust for spice level
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Lemon wedges for serving
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk or cream for richer potatoes
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins
- Grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor in the mashed potatoes
- A pinch of cayenne in the mashed potatoes for a spicy twist
Substitutions
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives for the mashed potatoes and substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms or tofu.
- Low-Carb: Replace mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter, then generously coat them with the spice mixture on both sides.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
- Add a little olive oil or butter to the pan.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is blackened and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- If the chicken browns too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
- Remove from the pan and let rest.
Make the Mashed Potatoes
- While the chicken is cooking, place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- For extra creamy mashed potatoes, you can add more butter or milk as needed.
Serve
- Plate the blackened chicken alongside a generous serving of mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 chicken breast with mashed potatoes):
- Calories: 450-500
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
- For extra creaminess in the mashed potatoes, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese when mashing.
- Make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness.
Variations:
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
- Blackened Salmon or Shrimp: Use the same spice blend on salmon fillets or shrimp for a seafood version of the dish.
- Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes: Add sautéed garlic to the mashed potatoes for a garlic-infused flavor.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or green beans for a complete meal. For a lighter side, serve with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli.
- Make It Ahead: The mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also prep the spice rub and marinate the chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover chicken and mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Blackened Chicken with Mashed Potatoes that’s bold, flavorful, and the perfect comfort meal! The blackened seasoning adds a smoky, spicy crust to the juicy chicken, while the creamy mashed potatoes balance out the heat for a satisfying dish. Whether you’re serving this for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this meal is sure to impress. So grab your skillet, spice things up, and enjoy this delicious comfort classic!
