This Cheesy Chicken and Potato Bake is a satisfying and hearty meal that combines tender potatoes, flavorful chicken, and a rich, cheesy topping. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner. The combination of vegetables, spices, and cheese gives this dish a comforting, homey feel that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine This dish is inspired by comforting home-cooked meals, offering a great balance of protein, vegetables, and cheese with a satisfying baked finish.
Full List of Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 1-2 potatoes, cut into pieces
- Salt, to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 chicken fillets, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (use different colored peppers for brightness)
- 1 tomato, diced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Sweet pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- Parsley, for garnish
- 150 grams (5 oz) cheddar cheese, shredded
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Potatoes:
- Cut the potatoes into small pieces and place them in a pot. Pour boiling water over them and add a pinch of salt. Cook until the potatoes are soft, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Onion:
- Finely chop the onion. Heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Chop the chicken fillets into small pieces. Add the chicken to the pan with the onion and cook until golden brown, about 7-10 minutes.
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Add the Vegetables:
- Chop the bell pepper into halves or small pieces and add it to the pan with the cooked chicken and onion. You can use different colored peppers to make the dish brighter.
- Add the diced tomato, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, salt, pepper, and sweet pepper. Stir well and let it cook for 10 minutes under a lid on low heat.
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Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs and add a pinch of salt. Add 1 cup of warm milk and whisk until combined.
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Make the Batter:
- Mash the cooked potatoes with a fork or potato masher. Stir in the beaten egg and milk mixture. Add 4 tablespoons of flour and 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder to the mashed potatoes and mix until smooth and creamy.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish and pour in the potato mixture. Layer the chicken and vegetable mixture on top.
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Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle 150 grams of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
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Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
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Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Cholesterol: 170 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe Casseroles are popular in many cuisines due to their simplicity and ability to combine multiple ingredients into a single dish. This cheesy chicken and potato bake is a modern twist on classic comfort foods, perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal in one pan.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for a quick family dinner.
- Cheesy and Comforting: The cheddar cheese topping adds richness and flavor, making every bite indulgent.
- One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Health Benefits
- Packed with Protein: The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Full of Vegetables: The bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions add vitamins and antioxidants, supporting immune health.
- Rich in Calcium: The cheddar cheese adds calcium, which is important for bone health.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
- With Crusty Bread: Pair with crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the amount of milk or add more mashed potatoes.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the chicken and vegetable mixture for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Version: Mix in some sour cream or cream cheese into the potato mixture for an extra creamy texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use more vegetables, like mushrooms or lentils, for a hearty vegetarian version.
Conclusion This Cheesy Chicken and Potato Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s an easy, one-pan dish that combines all the flavors of home cooking in a single, simple recipe. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole can be frozen. After baking, allow it to cool completely before freezing. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 40-50 minutes.
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Can I substitute the cheddar cheese? Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a sharp cheese like parmesan for a different flavor.
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How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
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Can I make this casserole gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this casserole gluten-free.
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Can I add other vegetables to this casserole? Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
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How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, and the center is firm. You can insert a toothpick to check if it comes out clean.
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Can I use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, mashed sweet potatoes can be used for a slightly different flavor and added nutrition.
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Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the chicken and use more vegetables or even a plant-based protein.
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Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk of your choice.