If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s comforting, loaded with flavor, and looks impressive while still being easy to pull together, then this Layered Potato and Minced Chicken Skillet with Cheese and Spinach is the recipe for you. With golden potato layers, melty cheese, juicy chicken filling, and the freshness of herbs and spinach, it’s a wholesome, skillet-cooked meal that can easily feed the family or impress your guests. The best part? You don’t need complicated techniques or fancy equipment — just simple ingredients and a pan.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 eggs

• 4 potatoes

• 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)

• 2 tbsp flour

• Spring onion, chopped

• Fresh dill, chopped

• 200 g cheese (grated, divided use)

• 1 onion (finely chopped)

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 250 g minced chicken

• 1 tomato (peeled, after soaking in hot water)

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tsp Italian herb blend

• 1 tsp sweet paprika

• Fresh spinach leaves

• Butter (for greasing pan)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and rinse the potatoes, then place them in a pot with salted water. Cook until the water boils and the potatoes are slightly softened but not falling apart. Drain and let cool slightly. Slice into thin rounds.

2. Make the potato mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs with flour and a pinch of salt. Add half of the grated cheese, along with spring onion and dill. Mix well.

3. Prepare the chicken filling: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add minced chicken and cook until no longer pink. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian herbs, and sweet paprika. Stir in peeled chopped tomato and tomato paste, then let it cook until slightly thickened. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the layers: Grease a large skillet or pan with butter. Spread half of the potato mixture on the bottom. Layer the chicken and spinach filling on top, followed by half of the remaining cheese. Add another layer of sliced potatoes, then sprinkle on the rest of the cheese.

5. Cook on the stovetop: Cover and cook on medium heat for 5–7 minutes. Carefully flip the entire layered skillet (using a plate if needed), then cook the other side for another 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.

6. Finish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness. Slice into portions and serve hot.

Nutrients (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 430 kcal

• Protein: 29 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Carbohydrates: 28 g

• Fiber: 4 g

• Calcium: 210 mg

• Iron: 3 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this dish because it’s everything comfort food should be — filling, cheesy, and flavorful — while still packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach, herbs, and lean chicken. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but layered and eye-catching enough to serve for a casual family gathering. It feels like a casserole but cooks faster and looks prettier on the plate.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

This recipe takes inspiration from classic European layered potato dishes like gratins and casseroles, while also borrowing flavors from Mediterranean cooking with the tomato, herbs, and spinach. It’s essentially a fusion of rustic potato comfort food and lighter, herb-driven chicken recipes. The result? A one-pan meal that blends tradition with a modern, health-conscious twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Potatoes: The starchy backbone of the recipe, turning tender inside and golden outside.

• Minced Chicken: A lighter protein than beef or pork, absorbing the seasoning beautifully.

• Cheese: Gooey, melty, and rich — the perfect binder for the layers.

• Spinach: Adds freshness, nutrition, and color to balance the richness.

• Tomato & Tomato Paste: Brings tang and depth of flavor to the filling.

• Dill & Spring Onion: Fresh herbs that brighten the layers and keep them from feeling heavy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This skillet dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in airtight containers and reheat slices in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for best results — this keeps the potatoes from becoming soggy. You can also reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Freezing isn’t recommended as potatoes and cheese tend to lose their texture after thawing.

Common Variations to Try

• Meat swap: Use ground turkey, pork, or even beef instead of chicken.

• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a hearty veggie version.

• Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or hot paprika to the chicken filling.

• Extra cheesy: Use mozzarella for stretchiness or parmesan for sharpness in addition to the base cheese.

• Mini portions: Cook in smaller pans for individual servings, perfect for brunch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh and simple sides. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with lemon dressing, roasted vegetables, or even garlic bread for extra indulgence. For drinks, try a refreshing white wine like Chardonnay, a sparkling water with lemon, or even a light lager. A fruity dessert — think apple pie or citrus sorbet — balances the richness beautifully.

Health Benefits

This meal is not only delicious but also nourishing. Potatoes provide potassium and fiber, eggs add protein and nutrients, while chicken supplies lean, high-quality protein. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley support digestion and immune health. By pan-cooking instead of deep-frying, this dish remains filling without being overly heavy.

Conclusion

The Layered Potato and Minced Chicken Skillet with Cheese and Spinach is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s hearty, flavorful, and adaptable — the kind of meal that feels both homey and special. With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you can create a dish that brings together the comfort of potatoes, the savoriness of chicken, and the freshness of herbs and greens. Serve it to your family, share it with friends, or enjoy it on a cozy evening — either way, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.