This incredible Whole30 Fried Chicken and Mashed Potato Bowl is the ultimate comfort food makeover that doesn’t sacrifice an ounce of flavor! With crispy, golden chicken pieces nestled alongside creamy mashed potatoes, tender green beans, and a rich, savory gravy, this dish delivers all the satisfaction of your favorite diner meal while keeping things completely Whole30 compliant. Perfect for anyone wanting to eat clean without feeling deprived, this complete meal comes together in about 45 minutes and will leave everyone at your table asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • 100% Whole30 Compliant: Enjoy classic comfort food without breaking your Whole30 commitment. This recipe proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor while eating clean!
  • One-Skillet Wonder: Despite having multiple components, this meal cleverly uses just one skillet and one saucepan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Even family members who aren’t following Whole30 will devour this meal. The crispy chicken, creamy potatoes, and rich gravy satisfy those comfort food cravings completely.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Each component can be prepared in advance, making this perfect for meal prep or busy weeknight planning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Chicken Breasts: The star protein that gets transformed into crispy, juicy nuggets. Boneless and skinless work best for quicker cooking and even coating.
  • Coconut Flour: Creates a crispy coating without traditional wheat flour. It also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
  • Arrowroot Powder: This starch helps create that coveted crunch on the chicken and thickens the gravy beautifully without using flour.
  • Eggs: The essential binding agent for the breading. They help the coating stick to the chicken and create that perfect crispy exterior.
  • Ghee: Adds richness and a buttery flavor while remaining Whole30 compliant. Its high smoke point makes it ideal for frying.
  • Potatoes: Red or Russet potatoes provide the perfect base for creamy, satisfying mashed potatoes. Russets give a fluffier texture, while reds offer a creamier finish.
  • Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess to the mashed potatoes without dairy. The full-fat version ensures richness that rivals traditional butter and cream.
  • Green Beans: Provides a fresh, vibrant element to balance the richness of the other components. They add color, nutrition, and texture contrast.
  • Chicken Stock: Forms the flavorful base of the gravy. Use homemade for the best flavor, or a high-quality compliant store-bought option.
  • Fish Sauce: Though optional, this adds an incredible depth of umami flavor to the gravy that elevates the entire dish.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning create layers of flavor throughout each component of the dish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

  • Swap chicken for turkey breast cutlets for a leaner option
  • Try with pork tenderloin cut into medallions for a different flavor profile
  • Use firm white fish like cod or halibut for a seafood twist (reduce cooking time)

Veggie Variations

  • Replace green beans with roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus
  • Add sautéed mushrooms to the green beans for an earthy twist
  • Mix cauliflower with the potatoes for a lower-carb option that’s still creamy

Flavor Twists

  • Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken coating
  • Incorporate smoked paprika into the chicken breading for a smoky flavor
  • Use bone broth instead of chicken stock for a richer, more nutrient-dense gravy

Dietary Adaptations

  • Replace eggs with coconut milk for an egg-free chicken coating
  • Swap potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option
  • Use coconut aminos instead of fish sauce for a soy-free umami boost

How to Make Whole30 Fried Chicken and Mashed Potato Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Start by melting ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your trimmed green beans and sauté for about a minute, allowing them to start developing flavor. Cover and let them steam for 4 minutes, then uncover and continue cooking until they develop those beautiful caramelized spots, about 1-5 minutes depending on your preference. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper during the final 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate and wipe out the skillet for your chicken.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine coconut flour, arrowroot powder, and all your seasonings. In a separate bowl, beat your eggs. Dip chicken pieces in the egg, then toss them in the dry mixture until thoroughly coated. Heat coconut oil or ghee in your skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken in batches (don’t overcrowd!) and cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes

While your chicken cooks, place peeled and chunked potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for approximately 10 minutes until they’re fork-tender. Drain thoroughly, then return to the pot. Add ghee, salt, and coconut milk, then mash to your desired consistency. Transfer to a serving bowl and keep the saucepan handy for your gravy.

Step 4: Create the Gravy

In the same saucepan you used for potatoes, heat your fat of choice over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in arrowroot powder and whisk continuously until smooth and bubbling, about 1 minute. This creates a roux-like base for your gravy. Gradually pour in chicken stock while whisking constantly – don’t worry if it looks clumpy at first, just keep whisking! Continue cooking until thickened to your liking, then stir in fish sauce (if using) and poultry seasoning. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Start with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes as your base. Top with several pieces of golden fried chicken and a portion of green beans. Ladle the hot gravy over everything and serve immediately for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Work in Batches: Don’t overcrowd your chicken in the skillet. Giving each piece room ensures even browning and maximum crispiness.
  • Temperature Matters: For perfectly crisp chicken, make sure your oil is hot before adding the pieces. Test with a small piece first – it should sizzle immediately.
  • Drain Potatoes Well: After boiling, drain your potatoes thoroughly and even return them to the hot pot for a minute to evaporate excess moisture. This prevents watery mashed potatoes.
  • Gravy Rescue: If your gravy develops lumps, don’t panic! Strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
  • Timing Strategy: Start the potatoes first, then make the green beans while they boil. Fry the chicken while potatoes finish, and make the gravy last so it’s hot and fresh.
  • Coating Trick: For extra-crispy chicken, let the coated pieces rest for 5 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.

How to Serve

This Whole30 bowl is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve family-style with all components in separate dishes, allowing everyone to build their own perfect bowl
  • For a fancier presentation, use a ring mold to shape the mashed potatoes before adding toppings
  • Consider a buffet-style setup for gatherings, keeping components warm in separate serving dishes

Complementary Sides

  • A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness
  • Roasted root vegetables like carrots or parsnips complement the flavors nicely
  • Pickled vegetables offer a tangy contrast to the rich components

Beverage Pairings

  • Sparkling water with lemon provides a refreshing contrast
  • Unsweetened iced tea with fresh herbs works beautifully
  • For non-Whole30 occasions, a light white wine or farmhouse ale pairs wonderfully

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will lose some crispiness but still tastes delicious. Gravy may thicken in the refrigerator but will thin out when reheated.

Freezing

The chicken nuggets freeze beautifully! Place cooled pieces on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Mashed potatoes can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month, though they may change texture slightly. Green beans are best enjoyed fresh, not frozen.

Reheating

For best results, reheat chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes to restore some crispiness. Microwave mashed potatoes with a splash of coconut milk, stirring halfway through. Gravy can be reheated in a small saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of stock if needed to thin. Green beans are best reheated briefly in a hot skillet.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this dish if I’m not on Whole30?

    Absolutely! This comfort food bowl is delicious regardless of your dietary choices. If you’re not following Whole30, you can use butter instead of ghee, regular flour instead of coconut flour, and cornstarch instead of arrowroot if you prefer. The recipe is designed to be delicious first, compliant second!

  2. My chicken coating isn’t sticking well. What am I doing wrong?

    This usually happens when your chicken pieces are too wet or your oil isn’t hot enough. Pat the chicken dry before dipping in egg, and make sure the oil is properly heated before adding chicken. Also, don’t crowd the pan, as this lowers the temperature and creates steam that can make the coating slide off.

  3. Can I make the gravy without arrowroot powder?

    Yes! If you’re not following Whole30, cornstarch works as a perfect 1:1 substitute. If you are on Whole30, tapioca starch can work in the same proportions. The texture might be slightly different, but both will thicken your gravy beautifully.

  4. My mashed potatoes seem watery. How can I fix this?

    If your mashed potatoes turn out too thin, you have a few options. You can return them to low heat and simmer gently to evaporate excess moisture, stirring frequently. Alternatively, you can mix in some additional coconut flour, which will absorb moisture without making them gluey like regular flour might.

Final Thoughts

This Whole30 Fried Chicken and Mashed Potato Bowl is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be off-limits when you’re focusing on cleaner eating. With its crispy chicken, creamy potatoes, fresh green beans, and savory gravy, it delivers all the satisfaction of a classic comfort meal without any of the ingredients that don’t serve your body well. Whether you’re strictly following Whole30 or simply looking for a more nutritious version of a favorite meal, this recipe deserves a regular spot in your dinner rotation. Give it a try this week – your taste buds and your body will thank you!

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Whole30 Fried Chicken and Mashed Potato Bowl with Gravy Recipe

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  • Author: Jasmine
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

A comforting Whole30 Fried Chicken and Mashed Potato Bowl with Gravy that combines tender chicken nuggets, creamy mashed potatoes, fresh green beans, and a flavorful gravy. This wholesome dish uses clean ingredients and is perfect for a satisfying and guilt-free main-course meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Green Beans

      • 1 tablespoon ghee
      • 10 ounces green beans (trimmed, long beans cut in half)
      • 2 cloves garlic
      • 1/2 teaspoon salt
      • Pepper

For the Fried Chicken

      • 1 cup coconut flour
      • 1/2 cup arrowroot powder
      • 1 teaspoon salt
      • 1 teaspoon onion powder
      • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
      • 1 teaspoon pepper
      • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
      • 2 eggs (beaten)
      • 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds, cut into bite-sized chunks)
      • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or ghee

For the Mashed Potatoes

      • Water
      • 2 pounds red or Russet potatoes (peeled, cut into 1″ chunks)
      • 1/4 cup ghee
      • 1 teaspoon salt
      • 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk

For the Gravy

    • 3 tablespoons fat (ghee, coconut oil, drippings, or lard)
    • 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
    • 2 cups chicken stock
    • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
    • 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning

Instructions

  1. Cook the Green Beans: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the ghee and add green beans. Sauté for one minute, then cover and cook for 4 minutes. Remove the cover and continue sautéing until browned in spots and tender, for approximately 1-5 minutes. Add garlic, salt, and pepper, and sauté for 30 seconds before transferring to a plate. Wipe out the skillet for the fried chicken.
  2. Prepare the Fried Chicken: Mix coconut flour, arrowroot powder, and all dry seasonings in a large bowl or gallon bag. Beat the eggs and coat the chicken chunks in the egg mixture. Then, toss the chicken in the dry mixture to fully coat. Heat coconut oil or ghee in the skillet over medium-high heat and fry chicken nuggets in batches until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes. Flip when necessary and drain on a paper-towel-lined plate.
  3. Make the Mashed Potatoes: In a medium saucepan, cover the peeled and chopped potatoes with water and bring it to a boil. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Drain the water, then add ghee, salt, and coconut milk. Mash to your preferred consistency, adding coconut milk as needed. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a bowl and return the saucepan to heat.
  4. Prepare the Gravy: Heat fat in the medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Sprinkle arrowroot powder over the fat and whisk vigorously until smooth. Cook for 1 minute while whisking constantly until the mixture becomes golden and bubbly. Slowly pour in chicken stock while whisking continuously, even if the mixture appears clumpy; continue until smooth. Cook until thickened, whisking as needed. Add fish sauce (if using) and poultry seasoning, seasoning further with salt and pepper if necessary.
  5. Assemble the Bowl: Start by using the mashed potatoes as the base. Top with the fried chicken nuggets and sautéed green beans, and pour the gravy over everything. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Although the recipe comprises four elements, it only requires the use of one skillet and one saucepan, making it a manageable and tidy process.
  • Cook the green beans first, then the chicken in the skillet. Meanwhile, the potatoes can be prepared in the saucepan, which can later be used to make the gravy.
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Hey there, I’m Jasmine Miller, the foodie behind JmRecipes.com! I’m on a mission to make cooking COOOL and GOOOOD for everyone, sharing easy, fun, and totally scrumptious recipes, so grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

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