Pan-Fried Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

1 . Stage

Place bacon in a large, deep-sided skillet over medium heat. Cook, turning occasionally, until crispy, about 10 minutes. Drain bacon slices on paper towels and crumble when cool enough to handle. Leave grease in the skillet.

2 . Stage

Lightly season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Cook in the bacon grease over medium heat until browned and the juices run clear, about 5 minutes per side. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove chicken to a plate.

3 . Stage

Add potatoes to the skillet and fry until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer potatoes to a bowl, then mash. Add butter and mash until combined. Add milk and mash until smooth. Mix in crumbled bacon and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4 . Stage

Add flour to remaining oil in the skillet. Whisk over medium-low heat until a roux forms. Add chicken broth, a little at a time, whisking as you do until a sauce forms that is a little thinner than gravy. Simmer gravy until it thickens, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper.

5 . Stage

Serve gravy over potatoes and chicken.