I love recipes that spark conversation and appetite, and these Fried Chicken Ice Cream Cones do just that.

They look like a sweet treat, but deliver bold, savory comfort food flavor. Think crispy chicken tenders tucked into waffle cones, topped with creamy mashed potato “scoops” and drizzled in rich brown gravy.

It’s quirky, delicious, and viral-worthy.

This recipe takes classic chicken tenders and elevates them into a fun and unexpected treat.

Imagine crispy buttermilk chicken coated in panko breadcrumbs, nestled in a waffle cone, and topped with creamy mashed Yukon gold potatoes and rich brown gravy.

It’s the ultimate comfort food mashup that will have your guests talking!

This playful dish is not just about looks; it packs a punch of flavor. The tender chicken is seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.

Plus, the addition of freshly ground pepper on top adds a delightful kick. It’s a perfect recipe for parties or a quirky family dinner!

Jump to Recipe

Here’s Why You’ll Love My Fried Chicken Ice Cream Cones

These cones bring all the joy of comfort food with a presentation that’s just begging to be photographed.

The crunch of the fried chicken contrasts beautifully with the soft mashed potatoes, and the warm gravy adds a luscious finish.

Whether you’re hosting a cookout or just want to impress friends with something unforgettable, this recipe delivers big flavor with a playful twist.

A Fun Twist on Comfort Food

Fried chicken ice cream cones bring a playful approach to traditional comfort food. Imagine the crispy delight of chicken tenders, marinated in buttermilk and coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb layer, all nestled inside a waffle cone.

Topped with fluffy mashed Yukon gold potatoes and drizzled with rich brown gravy, this dish is sure to make a statement at any dining occasion.

The combination of flavors and textures in this creation is nothing short of delightful. The seasoned chicken, infused with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and perfectly balanced with salt and black pepper, pairs beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes.

Each bite offers a sensational experience that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves a lasting impression.

The Perfect Presentation

One of the standout features of this dish is its whimsical presentation. The vibrant colors of the mashed potatoes and golden chicken tenders create a feast for the eyes.

Placed in a sturdy waffle cone, these elements come together to resemble a fun ice cream treat, flipping the script on what a dining experience can be.

To elevate the visual appeal even further, a drizzle of savory brown gravy and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper create an inviting aesthetic.

Setting this dish against a vibrant table setting enhances the fun atmosphere, making it ideal for parties or casual gatherings with family and friends.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

The foundation of these fried chicken cones lies in the quality of the ingredients used. Starting with chicken tenders, which are marinated in buttermilk to achieve tenderness, every component plays a vital role.

The all-purpose flour provides the essential base for breading, while the panko breadcrumbs ensure an ultra-crispy texture.

Seasonings like smoked paprika and garlic powder add depth to the chicken’s flavor profile, while the Yukon gold potatoes—peeled and diced—are perfect for creating a creamy mashed topping.

Finally, the brown gravy ties everything together, offering a savory contrast to the dish’s playful appearance.

Step-by-Step Assembly

Creating these delightful fried chicken ice cream cones is a straightforward process. After marinating the chicken tenders and preparing the breading station, the tenders can be coated and fried until golden brown.

Meanwhile, the Yukon gold potatoes are boiled, mashed, and seasoned to perfection.

Once all components are ready, it’s time to assemble. Begin by filling the waffle cone with a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes, followed by the crispy chicken tenders on top.

Finally, a lavish drizzle of brown gravy finishes the dish off, while the optional garnish of freshly ground pepper adds a touch of elegance.

Enjoying the Experience

These fried chicken ice cream cones are best enjoyed immediately while everything is warm and crispy.

The dish’s playful nature encourages a fun dining experience, allowing guests to share bites and laugh over this unconventional yet comforting meal.

Whether at a lively gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to spark conversations and create lasting memories.

The unique combination of comfort food in a whimsical presentation invites everyone to enjoy joy and satisfaction.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cones alongside a tangy coleslaw, a fresh corn salad, or even watermelon slices for that perfect summer vibe.

They’re great as party snacks, picnic fare, or even the star of a themed dinner. For drinks, sweet iced tea or lemonade will complement the savory flavors perfectly.

A selection of dipping sauces on the side can also enhance the experience, offering even more flavors to explore with each bite.

These suggestions enhance the overall dining experience, making it enjoyable and interactive.

Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Ice Cream Cones

  • Use crispy waffle cones, not sugar cones, for better flavor balance.
    .
  • Make your mashed potatoes thick so they hold their scoop shape.
    .
  • Drizzle the gravy just before serving so the cone doesn’t get soggy.
    .
  • Pre-fry chicken tenders in advance and reheat in the oven to make assembling faster.

Fried Chicken Ice Cream Cones with Mashed Potato & Gravy

Recipe by JoanneCourse: Appetizer / MainCuisine: American comfort foodDifficulty: Easy to Moderate
Servings

6

cones
Prep time

25

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories per cone

430

kcal


These fried chicken ice cream cones are a deliciously indulgent treat, featuring crispy chicken tenders served atop a fluffy mound of mashed potatoes, all drizzled with savory brown gravy. Each bite is a delightful combination of crunchy, creamy, and savory flavors.

Ingredients

  • For the Fried Chicken Tenders
  • 1 pound chicken tenders

  • 1 cup buttermilk

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Vegetable oil for frying

  • For the Mashed Potatoes
  • 2 cups peeled and diced Yukon gold potatoes

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1⁄4 cup whole milk

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • For Assembly
  • 6 waffle cones (not sugar cones)

  • 1 cup hot brown gravy (store-bought or homemade)

  • Freshly ground pepper (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  • Marinate the Chicken
  • Place chicken tenders in a bowl with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
  • Prep the Mashed Potatoes
  • Boil diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool slightly so they hold their shape.
  • Bread and Fry the Chicken
  • In a bowl, mix flour, panko, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat in the dry mix. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry tenders for 4–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  • Assemble the Cones
  • Place one chicken tender in each waffle cone. Use a scoop to add a ball of mashed potato on top, mimicking ice cream. Drizzle hot gravy generously over the top.
  • Garnish and Serve
  • Sprinkle with fresh pepper or parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

  • These cones are best enjoyed fresh for the full crunch and contrast.
  • Make a mini version using mini waffle cones and nugget-sized chicken for a party tray!
  • You can experiment with flavored waffle cones—some savory versions exist online or at specialty stores.
  • A fun idea: label them “Savory Cones” at your party to add to the surprise factor!

Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftover chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers.
    .
  • Reheat chicken in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes.
    .
  • Reheat mashed potatoes in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep them creamy.
    .
  • Assemble cones only when ready to serve to keep them crisp.
Fried Chicken Ice Cream Cones with Mashed Potatoes