Elevate your dinner routine with these hearty Chicken, Sausage, and Mashed Potato Bowls, inspired by the quality ingredients available at your local Piggly Wiggly in Birmingham. This comforting dish combines tender chicken breasts, flavorful Italian sausage, and creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with a rich, homemade gravy. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, it captures the essence of Southern comfort food with a fresh twist. The addition of green onions and juicy grapes brings a vibrant contrast to the rich, savory elements, making this dish a satisfying and balanced meal. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or something special for the weekend, these bowls are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken and Sausage:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 1 box of Betty Crocker Instant Mashed Potatoes
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Gravy:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings:
- Fresh seedless grapes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sausage:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- In the same skillet, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Slice the sausage into thin rounds.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the chicken and sausage are cooking, prepare the Betty Crocker Instant Mashed Potatoes according to the package instructions.
- Once prepared, stir in the butter, sour cream, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Make the Gravy:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Continue to whisk until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the mashed potatoes among four bowls.
- Top with slices of chicken and sausage.
- Drizzle the creamy gravy over the top.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Serve with a side of fresh grapes for a sweet contrast.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this hearty dish with a fresh side salad using Alabama-grown tomatoes and a light vinaigrette.
- For an extra touch, add some roasted broccoli florets on the side, which can be seasoned with garlic and lemon.
This dish combines the comforting flavors of creamy mashed potatoes and savory meats, all elevated with a rich gravy and fresh toppings. It’s a perfect family meal that’s both filling and satisfying.