Spicy Spud Chicken
A flavorful baked chicken dish coated with spicy potato flakes and parmesan, offering a crispy exterior and savory taste perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the melted butter in a shallow dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the instant mashed potato flakes, dry taco seasoning mix, ground red pepper, and grated parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken piece into the melted butter, then coat well with the potato mixture.
- Place the coated chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more ground red pepper or even diced jalapeños to the potato mixture. If you don't have instant mashed potato flakes, you can use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs instead. Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly coated for a consistent texture and flavor. For a twist, try adding some shredded cheese to the potato coating for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spicy Spud Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Grace'S Chicken Bake for a comforting dinner. You can also offer some salsa or guacamole on the side for extra flavor. This dish is great for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual pieces for quicker reheating, but the oven method helps maintain crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Spud Chicken contains roughly 58 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of cut pieces?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces; just adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. Bone-in pieces can add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
To create a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms. Coat the tofu or mushrooms in the same butter and potato mixture and bake until golden. This will provide a similar texture while keeping the flavors intact.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it with the potato mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, covered. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).