This Creamy Chicken and Potato Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting family meal. With tender potatoes, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 Egg
- 1 kg Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 Onion, diced
- 2 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Medium Carrots, chopped
- 200 g Frozen Chicken Fillet (thawed and diced)
- 200 g Bacon, diced
- 8-10 Mushrooms, sliced
- 50 g Cheese, grated
- 100 ml Cream
- ½ tsp Sweet Paprika
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp Flour
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for frying)
- Fresh Dill and Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- A little extra flour (for thickening if needed)
Directions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and cube the potatoes.
- Boil in a pot of water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken and Bacon:
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the diced bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the diced chicken until golden brown. Season with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Melt 1 tbsp butter in the skillet.
- Sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and chopped carrots, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the carrots are slightly tender.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter in the skillet.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in the cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the grated cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens. If needed, add a splash of water or more cream to adjust the consistency.
Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked potatoes, chicken, bacon, and mushrooms to the skillet.
- Stir everything together, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Finish and Serve:
- Cook the mixture for an additional 5-7 minutes over low heat to meld the flavors.
- Garnish with freshly chopped dill and parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the potatoes are fully drained before adding to the skillet to avoid a watery dish.
- Use a combination of cheeses like Parmesan and mozzarella for added flavor.
- For extra crunch, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for 5 minutes.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: High in potassium and fiber.
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein.
- Carrots: Provide vitamins A and C.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy, gluten, and eggs.
- Not suitable for lactose-intolerant or gluten-free diets without modifications.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
- Not recommended for freezing as the cream sauce may separate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and hearty, perfect for any time of year.
- Packed with flavor from bacon, mushrooms, and creamy cheese sauce.
- A one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Potato Bake is a satisfying and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect choice for a cozy dinner. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs, and watch it disappear from the table!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and are a great substitute. - Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely, using leftover or rotisserie chicken saves time. - What can I substitute for bacon?
Use turkey bacon, pancetta, or omit for a vegetarian option. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Replace flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour for thickening. - What cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyere are excellent choices. - Can I skip the cream?
Replace with milk for a lighter sauce or use a dairy-free alternative. - How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container and reheat before serving. - Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended as the sauce may separate upon thawing. - Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach work well. - What can I serve alongside this dish?
A crisp salad or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully.