This hearty and comforting dish combines juicy chicken and vegetable patties with a creamy mashed potato layer and a rich tomato sauce, baked until bubbly and golden brown. Packed with protein, vegetables, and flavor-enhancing spices like mint, cumin, paprika, and parsley, this meal is balanced, nourishing, and perfect for family dinners. The final sprinkle of melted cheese creates a crust that adds irresistible texture to this cozy bake.
Preparation Time, Cook Time, Total Time
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes (plus final browning)
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield
Servings: 6
Cuisine
Middle Eastern-Inspired Baked Chicken and Potato Casserole
Ingredients
For the vegetable chicken mix:
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1 onion, roughly chopped
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A handful of fresh parsley
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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2 cloves of garlic
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3 chicken fillets (approximately 600–700g / 1.3–1.5 lb), cut into chunks
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon sweet paprika
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½ teaspoon dried mint
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
For the mashed potato layer:
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4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
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Salt, to taste
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100 g (3.5 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
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A pinch of nutmeg
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1 tablespoon olive oil
For the tomato sauce:
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 cup hot water
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon sugar
For assembly and finishing:
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Vegetable oil (for greasing hands)
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Remaining shredded cheese (for topping)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the vegetables
Roughly chop the onion, parsley, and both green and red bell peppers. Add the garlic cloves. Use a blender or food processor to grind the vegetables into a chunky paste. -
Grind the chicken
Cut the chicken fillets into large pieces. Blend or grind in a food processor until finely minced but not over-processed. -
Combine chicken and vegetables
In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken with the blended vegetables. Add salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, dried mint, and ground cumin. Mix until fully combined. -
Chill the mixture
Cover the chicken mixture with cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes shaping easier. -
Prepare the mashed potatoes
While the chicken chills, boil the potatoes. Place chopped potatoes in a pot and pour over boiling water. Add a pinch of salt and cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes. -
Mash and season the potatoes
Once cooked, drain and mash the potatoes until smooth. Mix in half of the shredded cheese, nutmeg, and olive oil. Stir until creamy. -
Form the patties
Lightly grease your hands with vegetable oil. Shape the chilled chicken mixture into medium-sized patties or oval logs. -
Assemble in a baking dish
In a large baking dish, layer the bottom with mashed potatoes. Place the chicken patties on top, pressing gently so they settle into the mash. -
Prepare the tomato sauce
In a bowl, mix the tomato paste with 1 cup of hot water. Stir in salt and sugar until dissolved. -
Pour sauce over patties
Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the chicken and potato layers. -
Bake the dish
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake for 45 minutes, uncovered, until the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened. -
Top with cheese and brown
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling. -
Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
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Calories: 380
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Protein: 30g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Fat: 18g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 4g
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Sodium: 720mg
Values vary based on cheese, oil, and meat portions.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dish blends elements from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking—spiced ground meats, vegetable bases, and hearty tomato sauces. It’s reminiscent of kofta, meatballs, or chicken kebabs but baked in a casserole style that makes it ideal for families and gatherings. The use of vegetables blended into the chicken is a classic technique in many cultures to add moisture and flavor, while the yogurt-like creaminess of the mashed potatoes and the richness of the cheese create comfort food perfection.
It’s the kind of dish that’s trending online because of its visual appeal, nutritional value, and the way it feeds a group with minimal cleanup.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Wholesome and hearty: Packed with lean protein and veggies.
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Full of flavor: Herbs, spices, garlic, and sweet peppers create a vibrant taste.
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Comfort food: Creamy mash and cheesy topping give it indulgent flair.
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Family-friendly: Great for kids and adults, and makes fantastic leftovers.
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Make-ahead friendly: Prep the patties and mash ahead of time.
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One-dish meal: Protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one baking dish.
It’s cozy, filling, and satisfying—everything you want in a weekday dinner or weekend treat.
Health Benefits
This baked dish includes nutritious ingredients that make it a well-balanced meal:
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Chicken breast: High in protein, low in fat, and rich in B vitamins.
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Bell peppers: Loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
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Garlic and parsley: Anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting.
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Potatoes: Provide complex carbohydrates, potassium, and fiber.
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Mozzarella: Adds calcium and protein without excessive fat.
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Tomato sauce: Rich in lycopene and supports heart health.
This dish offers a wholesome balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients—perfect for nourishing the body while treating the tastebuds.
Serving Suggestions
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With a side salad: A fresh cucumber, tomato, or leafy salad balances the richness.
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With flatbread or pita: Great for scooping or serving as a wrap.
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As leftovers: Reheat and serve with a fried egg for a new twist.
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With yogurt sauce: A cooling herb yogurt or tzatziki adds contrast.
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Meal prep portions: Store in individual containers for grab-and-go lunches.
It’s a flexible main course that pairs well with just about anything.
Cooking Tips
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Use gloves or oil your hands: Makes shaping patties cleaner and easier.
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Chill the chicken mixture: Prevents stickiness and helps hold shape.
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Use waxy potatoes: Like Yukon Gold, for a creamier mash.
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Blend sauce well: Make sure tomato paste is fully dissolved.
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Bake uncovered: This helps the sauce reduce and the top brown.
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Let it rest: Allow 5 minutes before slicing for neater servings.
These small steps will ensure perfect results every time.
Variations to Try
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Spicy version: Add chili flakes or harissa to the chicken or sauce.
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Cheese swap: Use feta, cheddar, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.
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Add veggies: Mix spinach or grated carrots into the mash.
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Use beef or lamb: Swap the chicken for ground beef, turkey, or lamb.
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Vegan twist: Use mashed beans and lentils in place of chicken.
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Herb blend: Add oregano, basil, or za’atar for flavor twists.
This is an adaptable recipe you can adjust to suit your mood or dietary needs.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken and Vegetable Patties with Creamy Potato Mash and Tomato Sauce is the kind of dish that feels like home. It’s warm, nourishing, flavorful, and family-approved—perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend meals. With juicy chicken, blended herbs, creamy mashed potatoes, and bubbling cheese, it brings together comfort and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re making it fresh or reheating leftovers, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the patties and potatoes up to a day in advance. Assemble and bake when ready.
2. Can I freeze the dish?
Yes. Freeze fully baked portions or raw patties and mashed potatoes separately. Thaw and bake before serving.
3. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely. Just stir in cheese, olive oil, and nutmeg to enhance flavor.
4. What other vegetables can I add to the mix?
Carrots, zucchini, or spinach all blend well into the chicken and boost nutrition.
5. Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (like cheese and tomato paste) are gluten-free.
6. Can I bake the patties separately?
Yes. Form them on a parchment-lined tray and bake for 20–25 minutes at 200°C, then layer over potatoes and bake again with sauce.
7. What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with salad, rice, or steamed vegetables.
8. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
Yes. Use about ¾ cup canned crushed tomatoes and reduce water slightly.
9. How do I know the patties are done?
They should be firm, golden on the edges, and the internal temperature should be 75°C (165°F).
10. Can I cook this in a skillet?
You can pan-fry the patties first and then finish baking the whole dish in the oven for added texture.