Mashed Potatoes With Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Name: Mashed Potatoes With Crispy Chicken Cutlets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I absolutely love how comforting and satisfying mashed potatoes can be, especially when paired with crispy chicken cutlets. This recipe is one of my go-to favorites because it combines creamy potatoes with juicy, crunchy chicken, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Making this dish takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, and it's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. I can't wait to share my tips and tricks with you to ensure every bite is as delicious as it can be!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:25:39.750Z

Through countless experiments in the kitchen, I’ve discovered that the secret to the fluffiest mashed potatoes lies in using a combination of butter, cream, and a touch of garlic. It adds depth while keeping the potatoes rich and smooth. I usually opt for Yukon Gold potatoes because they lend a buttery flavor and creamy texture that’s hard to resist.

When it comes to achieving the perfect crispy chicken cutlet, I realized that a double breading technique is key. By dipping the chicken in flour, then egg, and finally seasoned breadcrumbs, I create a delightful crunch that stands out. This combination never fails to impress, especially paired with the buttery mashed potatoes!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Perfectly crispy chicken cutlets that contrast beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes.
A harmony of flavors from buttery potatoes and seasoned breading.
An ideal family meal that comes together in just 40 minutes.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

For this recipe, Yukon Gold potatoes are the star of the show. Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them ideal for mashing. When selecting potatoes, look for ones that are firm with no blemishes. Avoid sprouting potatoes as they can have an off taste. If you don’t have Yukon Golds, Russet potatoes can be a great alternative, though they may require a bit more cream to achieve that desired smoothness.

When peeling and quartering the potatoes, aim for even sizes to ensure uniform cooking. If you're short on time, you can cut the quarters into smaller pieces, reducing the boiling time to about 10-15 minutes. Just keep an eye on them and test for doneness with a fork—they should be tender, not falling apart.

Mastering Chicken Cutlet Preparation

Breading chicken cutlets is a critical step for achieving that perfect crunch. When setting up your breading station, ensure your flour is well-seasoned. The flour coating not only helps the egg adhere but also creates a barrier that prevents the chicken from getting soggy. A mixture of salt, pepper, and paprika adds depth to the taste; feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme to suit your palate.

During frying, maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy; if too hot, it will brown too quickly without cooking through. Ideally, the oil should be around 350°F. A small piece of bread dropped into the oil should sizzle immediately. Fry the cutlets on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, looking for a golden brown crust before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a more complete meal, consider serving your crispy chicken cutlets with a side of steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. The bright colors and fresh flavors not only enhance the dish’s appeal but also add nutritional balance. You can also drizzle a bit of gravy over the mashed potatoes for added richness.

If you're hosting a gathering, this recipe can be easily doubled, allowing for a stress-free presentation. Just make sure to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the oil temperature. For leftovers, store the chicken cutlets separately in an airtight container; they can be reheated in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispness.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crispy Chicken Cutlets

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

In a large pot, add the quartered Yukon Gold potatoes and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add heavy cream, butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.

Bread the Chicken

While the potatoes cook, set up a breading station. Season the flour with salt, pepper, and paprika in one dish. In a second dish, whisk the eggs. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken breast into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve

To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on the plate and top with a crispy chicken cutlet. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor in the mashed potatoes, try adding some finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for an hour prior to breading for an even juicier cutlet.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mashed potatoes turn out gummy, this typically happens from over-mashing or using a food processor. To prevent this, mash the potatoes manually, using a potato masher or ricer until just smooth. Adding heavy cream and butter while mashing can help maintain a creamy texture without overworking the potatoes.

Another common issue is chicken cutlets that aren't crispy. To ensure maximum crunch, ensure your breadcrumbs are seasoned and avoid using excess moisture on the chicken before breading. Ensure you shake off any excess flour and egg to avoid clumping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

When storing leftover mashed potatoes, place them in an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess.

Leftover chicken cutlets should also be stored separately in airtight containers. They can be reheated in an oven preheated to 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain their crispiness as opposed to microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Variations You Can Try

For different flavor profiles, consider infusing your cream for the mashed potatoes with herbs like rosemary or thyme. A touch of sour cream can add tanginess to your potatoes, while garlic powder or cheese can enrich the flavor even more.

You can also experiment with the chicken coating, trying panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture, or adding grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy touch. Seasoning variations can include cayenne for heat or lemon zest for brightness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes for mashing?

Yes, you can use Russet potatoes, but Yukon Golds give a creamier texture.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can bake the chicken cutlets in the oven instead of frying them to reduce the fat content.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness on the chicken, and warm mashed potatoes gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them ahead, let them cool, and then reheat gently before serving.