If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy day, the Super Quick Crumbed Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender, golden crumbed chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and a crisp, vibrant salad for a balanced plate that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you want something nourishing but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. From the crunchy coating to the velvety potatoes and the zesty salad, every bite sings with flavor and texture, making this recipe a tried-and-true favorite you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that come together to create a dish full of texture and taste. Each one plays its part: the chicken provides juicy protein, the mayonnaise and parmesan add flavor and help form the irresistible crust, potatoes give comforting creaminess, and the fresh veggies brighten the meal with natural crunch and acidity.
- 400 g chicken breast minute steaks: Quick-cooking and tender, they’re the perfect base for this speedy dinner.
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise: Preferably whole egg mayo — it adds richness and helps the crumb mixture stick.
- 2 tbsp parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan brings a savory, nutty note that elevates the crumb coating.
- 6 tbsp panko breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs create a light, crunchy texture that makes every bite satisfying.
- 2 medium potatoes: Unpeeled for extra nutrients and a rustic feel, ideal for creamy mashed potatoes.
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup milk: Use full fat or low fat to mash the potatoes perfectly smooth and creamy.
- 1 tbsp butter (optional): Adds extra richness to the mashed potatoes but can be left out for a lighter version.
- Salt and pepper: To season both the potatoes and the salad, enhancing all the fresh flavors.
- 1 large cucumber: Or 2 small ones, peeled into ribbons for a crisp, refreshing salad component.
- 1 punnet cherry tomatoes: Or 2 medium tomatoes, halved to add sweet juiciness and color.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Provides brightness and balances the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For dressing the salad and adding a beautiful finish to the dish.
How to Make Super Quick Crumbed Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill and Potatoes
Start by turning your grill or broiler on high, placing the rack about 20cm from the heat to get a golden crust quickly. While it heats up, pop your potatoes in the microwave. Cook on high for 3 minutes, flip them over, and cook for another 2 until tender. These microwave potatoes save you time and result in perfectly cooked mash in minutes.
Step 2: Make the Mayonnaise-Parmesan Mixture
Whisk together the mayonnaise and grated parmesan in a small bowl. This mixture is the secret behind the delicious crumb coating — it adds flavor, moisture, and helps the panko breadcrumbs stick perfectly to each chicken piece.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large ovenproof frypan. Spread the mayo-parmesan mixture evenly over each piece using the back of a spoon, covering every corner. Then sprinkle the panko crumbs on top, pressing down gently with your fingers to help them adhere. This step ensures a crisp, golden crust after grilling.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Pop the frypan under the grill for about 8 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crumb coating is golden and crunchy. Rotation at around 6 minutes helps achieve even cooking. This step gives you juicy chicken with a delightful crisp just in time for a quick dinner.
Step 5: Mash the Potatoes
When the chicken is cooking, carefully slice the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Add milk, butter if using, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth, adding milk to reach your favorite consistency. This comforting mash pairs wonderfully with the crunchy chicken.
Step 6: Prepare the Fresh Salad
Use a vegetable peeler to make long cucumber ribbons, then halve the cherry tomatoes. Toss them on a plate and dress with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This fresh side balances the richness of the chicken and potatoes with zesty brightness and crunch.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
On each plate, mound a generous serving of mashed potatoes, top with a piece of crumbed chicken, and drizzle with extra olive oil if desired. Serve the fresh salad alongside for a complete meal that tastes like it took hours but is done in a flash.
How to Serve Super Quick Crumbed Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle herbal note that lifts the overall flavor. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon over the chicken to enhance its golden crust with a touch of acidity.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands beautifully on its own, but for a heartier meal, consider serving steamed green beans or roasted asparagus alongside to add more color and fiber. A light garlic butter drizzle on the veggies complements the creamy mashed potatoes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the mashed potatoes in a neat ring or swirl with a spoon for a restaurant-quality look. Layer the cucumber ribbons and tomatoes artistically to resemble flowers or nests. If you’re serving guests, a rustic wooden board with small bowls of salad, chicken, and potatoes invites sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the crumbed chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This prevents the crumb coating from getting soggy. The salad is best dressed fresh, so keep the cucumber and tomatoes in a separate container without dressing for maximum crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze the crumbed chicken on a baking tray first to keep the crumb intact, then transfer to a freezer bag. Mashed potatoes freeze well too if sealed tightly, but fresh salad components do not freeze well and are best made fresh.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken under a grill or in a hot oven to bring back the crispiness of the crumbs. The mashed potatoes warm beautifully in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to refresh their creaminess. Salad should always be served fresh after reheating the other components.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for this Super Quick Crumbed Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer extra juiciness and flavor, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Just adjust accordingly and ensure they are cooked through before serving.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs give the lightest, crispiest texture, but regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch. Just expect a slightly denser crust.
Can I prepare this dish without a grill or broiler?
You can bake the chicken in a hot oven (around 200°C/400°F) on a wire rack to achieve a similar crispiness, though grilling typically provides faster, more even browning.
What type of potatoes work best for the mashed potatoes?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Desiree hold their shape well and create creamy mashed potatoes when microwaved. Avoid floury potatoes which may become gluey.
Can I add herbs or spices to the crumb mixture?
Yes! Adding dried herbs like oregano, paprika, or garlic powder to the panko or the mayo mixture can personalize the flavor and add a tasty twist to the crumbed chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Super Quick Crumbed Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Salad Recipe is a true lifesaver for busy days when you want a meal that feels homemade and satisfying without the fuss. Its wonderful combination of textures and flavors means it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a comforting solo dinner. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite quick dish to keep in your weekly rotation!
