Embrace the warm flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant and nourishing chicken dish. Layered with juicy chicken breasts, topped with a savory blend of eggs, sour cream, and spices, and baked to perfection with melted cheeses, this meal is a testament to the delicious versatility of Mediterranean cuisine.
The accompanying crispy potatoes and fresh avocado salad add a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, making this dish not just a meal but a culinary journey through the sunny Mediterranean. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it promises satisfaction in every bite.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 30 ml (1 fl oz) olive oil
- 500 g (18 oz) potatoes
- 3 chicken breasts
- 4 eggs
- 200 g (7.1 oz) sour cream
- 2 g (0.1 oz) black pepper
- 2 g (0.1 oz) salt
- 2 g (0.1 oz) sweet paprika
- 100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella
- 1 onion
- 1 tomato
- 100 g (3.5 oz) parmesan
- Salad:
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 red onion
- 2 cucumbers
- 10 g (0.4 oz) parsley
- 1 avocado
- 3 g (0.1 oz) salt
- 3 g (0.1 oz) black pepper
- 30 ml (1 fl oz) olive oil
- Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Peel and slice the potatoes. Place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs with sour cream, salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Slice the chicken breasts and layer them over the egg mixture. Top with sliced onion, tomato, mozzarella, and grated parmesan.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For the salad, chop the tomatoes, red onion, cucumbers, parsley, and avocado. Combine in a bowl and season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Serve the chicken breasts with the crispy potatoes and salad on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes | Kcal: 600 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Healthy: The combination of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and heart-healthy olive oil not only delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavors but also packs a nutritional punch that is good for your heart and waistline.
- Easy to Prepare: Despite its impressive presentation, this recipe is incredibly straightforward. With simple, step-by-step instructions, even novice cooks can create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a grand weekend dinner, or prep it in advance for quick weekday meals. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress both family and guests.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Chicken Breasts: A lean protein source that is low in fat but high in protein, perfect for a filling yet healthy meal.
- Potatoes: They provide potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, especially with the skin on. In this recipe, they are sliced and roasted until golden, offering a satisfying crunch.
- Eggs and Sour Cream: These ingredients form a rich base that helps in keeping the chicken moist and flavorful during baking. The eggs bind the sour cream and spices, creating a creamy texture that complements the firm chicken and veggies.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan: Adding a layer of these cheeses not only infuses the dish with a gooey, melty texture but also enriches it with calcium and a wonderful aroma upon baking.
- Herbs and Spices: Salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika are the basic seasonings that elevate the natural flavors of the other ingredients. Adjust these to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Nutritional Highlights
This dish is a balanced meal that includes proteins, good fats, and carbs, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Here are some benefits:
- High Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Low-Calorie: Using lean chicken and controlled portions of cheeses keeps the calorie count in check.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like tomatoes, parsley, and avocado bring vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
Cooking Tips for Perfection
- Chicken Preparation: For even cooking, make sure the chicken breasts are sliced to uniform thickness.
- Roasting Potatoes: To achieve crispy potatoes, don’t overcrowd them on the baking sheet, and flip them halfway through the cooking time.
- Cheese Selection: Choose high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for the best melting properties and flavor.
Enjoy crafting this delightful Mediterranean Chicken Feast that promises not just a meal but a memorable dining experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the rich flavors of the Mediterranean and appreciate a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.