Chicken Fried Potatoes: A Hearty, Comforting Skillet Meal

Looking for a quick, satisfying meal to warm up your Monday afternoon on this beautiful May 26, 2025? These Chicken Fried Potatoes are the answer! This dish brings together tender, golden potatoes and savory chicken in a one-skillet recipe that’s packed with flavor and comfort. Sautéed with onions, garlic, and a touch of seasoning, the potatoes crisp up beautifully while the chicken adds a hearty protein punch. Whether you’re using leftovers or starting from scratch, this versatile recipe is perfect for a cozy lunch, a simple dinner, or even a hearty breakfast. Top it with melted cheese or fresh green onions for an extra layer of deliciousness, and you’ve got a meal that’s as easy as it is irresistible.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Difficulty: Easy

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Fried Potatoes

This Chicken Fried Potatoes recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the crispy, golden goodness of skillet-fried potatoes with the savory richness of chicken. The dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for a busy Monday like today, May 26, 2025. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked potatoes and chicken, but it’s just as easy to prepare from scratch. The garlic powder, salt, and pepper create a simple yet flavorful seasoning blend, while the optional cheese and green onions add a customizable flair. Whether you serve it as a main dish, a side, or a breakfast hash, this skillet meal delivers warmth, comfort, and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fried Potatoes:

3 cups cooked, diced potatoes – Use leftover boiled potatoes, roasted potatoes, or even baked potatoes; Yukon Gold or Russet varieties work well.
1 cup cooked, shredded or diced chicken – Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or poached chicken breast all work great.
1/2 cup chopped yellow onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth; white or red onion can be substituted.
1/2 tsp garlic powder – Infuses the dish with a mild, savory flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger kick.
1 tsp kosher salt – Adjust to taste, especially if your chicken or potatoes are already seasoned.
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper – Adds a warm, mild spice.
2 tbsp oil or butter – Oil (like vegetable or avocado) gives a crisp finish, while butter adds rich flavor; a mix of both works too.

Optional Toppings:

1/2 cup shredded cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend melts beautifully.
2 tbsp chopped green onions – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish; chives can be a substitute.

For Serving (Optional):

Hot sauce, ketchup, or sour cream – For dipping or drizzling.

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: If you don’t have cooked potatoes or chicken on hand, start by boiling 3 medium potatoes until fork-tender (about 15 minutes), then dice them. For the chicken, shred or dice a cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or any leftover chicken you have. Chop the onion and set everything aside.
Heat the Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil, butter, or a combination in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) over medium heat. Let the oil shimmer or the butter melt and foam slightly, ensuring the skillet is evenly coated.
Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet in a single layer to ensure even browning. Let them cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and crispy. Flip the potatoes with a spatula and cook for another 2–3 minutes to brown the other sides.
Add the Chicken and Seasonings: Stir in the cooked chicken, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to evenly distribute the seasonings. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened, the chicken is heated through, and the potatoes are crispy and golden all over.
Add Optional Toppings: If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the skillet, then cover with a lid for 1–2 minutes to let it melt. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.
Serve Hot: Transfer the chicken fried potatoes to a serving platter or divide onto plates. Serve immediately with your favorite condiments like hot sauce, ketchup, or a dollop of sour cream on the side for dipping.

Presentation Tips for a Rustic, Inviting Dish

Skillet Showcase: Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, homey vibe that invites everyone to dig in.
Colorful Garnish: Scatter chopped green onions or fresh parsley over the top for a pop of green that contrasts with the golden potatoes.
Cheese Appeal: If using cheese, let it melt into gooey pools across the top, making the dish look extra indulgent.
Sidekick Style: Serve with a small bowl of ketchup or hot sauce on the side, and pair with a simple green salad or sliced tomatoes for a balanced plate.

Tips for Success

Potato Prep: Use pre-cooked, chilled potatoes for the best texture—they’ll crisp up better than freshly boiled ones. If boiling fresh, let them cool slightly to firm up.
Crispy Potatoes: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed to ensure the potatoes brown evenly without steaming.
Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken adds a savory depth, but grilled or poached chicken works just as well. Ensure the chicken is cooked and seasoned before adding.
Butter vs. Oil: Butter adds a rich flavor, while oil ensures a crispier finish. A mix of 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp oil gives the best of both worlds.
Don’t Overcook: Stir occasionally but not constantly to allow the potatoes to develop a golden crust.

Variations to Try

Breakfast Hash: Top with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast twist; the runny yolk adds a creamy contrast.
Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne to the seasonings for a smoky heat.
Veggie Boost: Mix in 1/2 cup of diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Cheesy Deluxe: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack, or add a sprinkle of Parmesan for a nutty finish.
Herb-Infused: Toss in 1 tsp of dried thyme or rosemary for an earthy, aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Chicken Fried Potatoes are versatile enough to be a main dish, side, or breakfast option, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks:

As a Main: Serve with a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
As a Side: Pair with grilled chicken, pork chops, or a juicy steak for a hearty dinner.
Breakfast Style: Add a fried egg and serve with a side of bacon or sausage links for a filling brunch.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of iced tea, a light beer, or a fruity sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
Condiment Ideas: Offer hot sauce, ketchup, or a garlic aioli for dipping.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep toppings like green onions separate to maintain freshness.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness, or microwave for 1–2 minutes (though the potatoes may soften).
Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet over medium heat.

Why This Recipe Works

These Chicken Fried Potatoes are a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The pre-cooked potatoes crisp up beautifully in the skillet, while the chicken adds protein and heartiness, making it a complete meal. The onions and garlic powder provide a savory depth, and the optional cheese and green onions elevate the dish with creamy and fresh elements. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers, and the one-skillet method keeps cleanup minimal. On a busy Monday like today, May 26, 2025, this recipe is a lifesaver for a quick, comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Share the Comfort!

Ready to whip up these Chicken Fried Potatoes for lunch or dinner today? They’re the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Snap a photo of your skillet creation and share it with us in the comments or on social media with #ChickenFriedPotatoes. Let’s spread the cozy vibes, one delicious bite at a time!

Chicken Fried Potatoes: A Hearty, Comforting Skillet Meal