When comfort food and wholesome ingredients meet, you get a dish that not only fills your stomach but warms your heart. This Chicken and Vegetable Potato Bake with Cream and Mozzarella is one of those recipes you’ll want to come back to again and again. It’s hearty, creamy, full of vibrant flavors, and layered with goodness. Imagine tender chicken fillet seasoned with dill, garlic, and black pepper, combined with potatoes, onions, celery, and sweet paprika. All of these beautiful flavors are tied together with a light cream base and finished with a golden layer of melted mozzarella. This dish is both rustic and refined—a recipe that works equally well as a casual weeknight dinner or as a showstopper on the weekend table. What makes it even better is how easy it is to prepare: a little chopping, some seasoning, layering everything together, and letting the oven do the rest of the work. The result is a bubbling, golden bake that is flavorful, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying. It’s also versatile—perfect for feeding a family, meal prepping, or even entertaining friends with something homemade and comforting.
Ingredients
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1 chicken fillet
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1/2 tsp dried garlic
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1/3 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp dried dill
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Salt, to taste
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4–5 medium potatoes
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1 onion, diced
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2 celery sticks, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 paprika (bell pepper), chopped
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4 eggs
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100 g cream (12% fat)
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1 tsp dried dill
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1/2 tsp salt
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100 g mozzarella cheese, grated
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Directions
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Begin by preparing the chicken fillet. Season it with dried garlic, black pepper, dried dill, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes so the flavors absorb.
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While the chicken rests, peel and slice the potatoes thinly. These will create the starchy base for the bake.
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Dice the onion, chop the celery, mince the fresh garlic, and chop the paprika into small pieces. These vegetables will add flavor, crunch, and natural sweetness.
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In a baking dish, layer the potatoes evenly on the bottom. Scatter the onion, celery, paprika, and garlic over the top. Add the seasoned chicken fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces.
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In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, cream, dried dill, and 1/2 tsp salt until well combined. This mixture will bind everything together and create a custardy texture once baked.
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Pour the egg and cream mixture over the layered chicken and vegetables, making sure it spreads evenly.
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Place the dish in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) and bake for 30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the mixture is set.
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Remove the dish, sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly on top, and return it to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Nutrients (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 285
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Protein: 21 g
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Carbohydrates: 16 g
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Fat: 14 g
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Sodium: 480 mg
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Vitamin C: 20% DV
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Calcium: 15% DV
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Iron: 10% DV
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this dish because it’s the definition of comfort food without being overly heavy. It has layers of textures and flavors—from the tender chicken to the creamy custard-like egg base and the gooey melted mozzarella on top. Plus, it’s the type of recipe that looks beautiful when served, with its golden cheese and colorful vegetables peeking through. Another reason to love it? It’s beginner-friendly but tastes like something from a restaurant.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
This recipe takes inspiration from traditional European potato casseroles and gratins, dishes that have long been staples in family kitchens. The addition of chicken makes it heartier and protein-rich, while the vegetables add both flavor and nutrition. The final touch of mozzarella gives it that modern twist we all love in baked dishes. It’s a blend of heritage and modern comfort, drawing from simple home-cooked traditions.
Ingredient Spotlight
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Chicken Fillet: Lean, tender, and a versatile protein that adapts beautifully to seasoning.
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Potatoes: The starchy base that holds everything together, soft inside but sturdy enough to support the dish.
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Celery and Onion: Add depth of flavor and a savory balance.
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Paprika: Gives color and sweetness.
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Cream and Eggs: Transform into a custard-like filling that binds everything.
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Mozzarella: The finishing touch that gives this bake its irresistible golden, melty top.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and place in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes. This ensures the bake reheats evenly without drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture rubbery. You can also freeze portions before adding mozzarella, then bake from frozen and finish with cheese before serving.
Common Variations to Try
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Replace chicken with turkey or lean ground beef for a twist.
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Add extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli.
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Use cheddar, gouda, or parmesan instead of mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
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Spice it up with paprika powder or chili flakes for a kick.
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For a lighter version, use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt in place of regular cream.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy base. For drinks, white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lime or homemade iced tea works perfectly.
Health Benefits
This bake offers a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs, making it a complete meal. Chicken provides lean protein for muscle health, while potatoes add potassium and fiber. Eggs contribute essential vitamins, and mozzarella delivers calcium for bone strength. The vegetables provide antioxidants and vitamins, making this dish nourishing as well as comforting.
Conclusion
The Chicken and Vegetable Potato Bake with Cream and Mozzarella is the kind of dish that makes you excited about dinnertime. It’s filling, flavorful, and visually appealing, with its golden cheesy crust and vibrant vegetables. It’s a recipe that celebrates simplicity while delivering maximum satisfaction.
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What makes it truly special is its versatility. You can adapt it to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it budget-friendly and customizable. And yet, no matter how you tweak it, the result will always be comforting, hearty, and delicious.
This is more than just a potato bake—it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. With each bite, you taste the love and creativity that went into it. So next time you’re looking for a meal that feels like a hug on a plate, try this recipe. It’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your collection.