This Layered Chicken and Potato Skillet combines simplicity with indulgence in a rustic, comforting dish. The potatoes are sliced thin and layer the bottom, creating a soft, absorbent base that picks up all the flavors of the seasoned chicken layered on top. Topped with melted mozzarella and cheddar, this dish is a cheesy, savory treat that exemplifies home cooking.
Great for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend meal, this skillet dish is easy to prepare and even easier to love. Whether served as is or accompanied by a crisp, fresh salad, it promises satisfaction with every bite and showcases the versatility of using a simple vegetable peeler in an innovative way.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 potatoes (about 300g)
- 2 chicken breasts (about 300g)
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- Vegetable oil for cooking
- 80-100 grams of mozzarella cheese
- 2 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 carrot
- 2 cucumbers
- A bunch of parsley
- 1 tablespoon of yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
Directions:
- Peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler and rinse them under cold water.
- Continue to use the vegetable peeler to slice the potatoes into thin rounds.
- Dice the chicken breasts into small cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the diced chicken in the egg until well coated.
- Sprinkle flour over the chicken and stir until evenly covered.
- Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Arrange the potato slices at the bottom to form an even layer.
- Evenly distribute the chicken mixture over the potato layer. Cover with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes.
- Carefully flip the chicken and potato layers, cooking for an additional 10 minutes without the lid.
- Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and cook until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- For the salad, combine shredded carrot, sliced cucumber, and chopped parsley with yogurt and mayonnaise in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the skillet chicken and potatoes hot with the fresh cabbage salad on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 540 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Why This Recipe Works
- One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means minimal cleanup and straightforward cooking. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: This dish uses simple, readily available ingredients that can be easily substituted or adjusted based on personal preferences or what you have in your pantry.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of protein-rich chicken, starchy potatoes, and melted cheese ensures this dish feels like a fulfilling meal, ideal for comforting someone or simply ending the day with a warm dinner.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Chicken Breast: Lean and healthy, chicken breast provides a high-quality protein source that is low in fat. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well from accompanying ingredients.
- Potatoes: Acting as a natural thickener due to their starch content, potatoes add texture and substance to the dish, ensuring it’s hearty and filling.
- Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese: A blend of these cheeses offers a perfect melt with a nice balance of flavor—the mozzarella is mild and creamy, while cheddar brings a slight sharpness and depth.
- Vegetable Peeler Trick: Utilizing a vegetable peeler to create thin slices of potato is not only an innovative use of the tool but also ensures that the potatoes cook through evenly and quickly absorb the flavors of the dish.
Customization Ideas
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or a hearty vegetable like portobello mushrooms to cater to vegetarian preferences.
- Spice It Up: Add some heat with a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños mixed into the chicken before cooking.
- Add Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard can be layered in with the chicken for added nutrition and color.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: A light, vibrant salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the cheesy chicken and potatoes.
- Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread to sop up any flavorful juices left in the skillet.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the cheesy, savory flavors of the skillet beautifully.
Conclusion
The Layered Chicken and Potato Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in the form of food. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a quick, delicious dinner that appeals to both adults and children alike. With its simple preparation and versatile nature, it stands as a testament to the joy of cooking with basic ingredients that deliver exceptional flavor.