This savory chicken and potato dish combines tender, crispy fried potatoes with a flavorful chicken filling and a cheesy topping that bakes into a comforting, delicious meal. It’s an easy-to-make, hearty dish that will please everyone at the table, offering a satisfying mix of textures and savory flavors.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
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5-6 potatoes
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
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1 onion
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2 chicken breasts
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1 teaspoon chicken spices
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Salt and pepper (to taste)
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1 bell pepper
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 cup water (240 ml)
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Parsley (to taste)
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Butter (1 tablespoon, to taste)
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100 g (3.5 oz) cheese (grated)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Cook the Potatoes
Peel and cut the 5-6 potatoes into small pieces. Cook them in salted boiling water until tender (about 10-15 minutes). Drain and mash them in a bowl. -
Fry the Onion
Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the 1 onion, finely chopped, and fry for about 4 minutes until it becomes transparent. -
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the 2 chicken breasts into small cubes. Add them to the pan with the onion and fry for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and slightly golden. -
Add Spices and Bell Pepper
Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of chicken spices, salt, and pepper to taste. Add 1 bell pepper, chopped, and fry for another 3-5 minutes until the pepper softens. -
Make the Sauce
Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 1 cup of water (240 ml). Reduce the heat and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes on low heat. -
Mash the Potatoes
Transfer the cooked potatoes into a separate bowl. Add butter to taste, along with parsley, and mix until smooth and well combined. -
Form the Balls
Shape the mashed potatoes into medium-sized balls. Place a small amount of mashed potatoes on the bottom of a baking dish. Then, add the chicken filling on top of the mashed potatoes. -
Top with Cheese
Grate 100 g (3.5 oz) of cheese and sprinkle it over the chicken filling, covering it evenly. -
Bake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F). Bake the dish for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the dish is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 350
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Protein: 25 g
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Fat: 18 g
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Carbohydrates: 25 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Sugar: 5 g
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Sodium: 400 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dish is a fusion of comfort food, combining the flavors of mashed potatoes with a savory chicken and vegetable filling. Potato-based dishes are popular around the world, especially in Eastern Europe, where stuffed potatoes or potato-based casseroles are a staple. The cheesy topping adds a delicious richness, making this dish even more indulgent.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Hearty and filling: This dish is packed with protein, vegetables, and potatoes, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
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Cheesy goodness: The melted cheese on top adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the savory chicken and potato filling.
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Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for a dinner party.
Health Benefits
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Potatoes: Provide potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, making them an excellent addition to your diet.
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Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken helps build and repair muscles and supports immune function.
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Cheese: Adds calcium for strong bones and teeth, as well as healthy fats for energy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad to balance out the richness. You could also enjoy it with some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
Cooking Tips
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Make ahead: You can prepare the potato balls and chicken filling in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.
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Use different cheese: While Emmental is delicious, you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, or any cheese you prefer.
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Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and spices to your taste, adding chili flakes for some heat or herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian version: Substitute the chicken with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.
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Add more vegetables: You can add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and color.
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Spicy version: Add chili powder or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This baked chicken and potato dish is a perfect comfort meal for any occasion. With its creamy filling, cheesy topping, and crispy potatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Simple to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is both satisfying and delicious.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and chicken filling in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and bake just before serving. -
Can I use frozen potatoes for this dish?
Yes, you can use frozen potatoes, but make sure they are cooked thoroughly before mashing them. -
Can I substitute chicken with other meats?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even beef for a different flavor. -
Can I make this dish without cheese?
Yes, you can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a lighter version of the dish. -
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat. -
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the entire dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake when ready. -
Can I use a different type of potato?
Any type of potato will work, but starchy potatoes like Russets are best for making mashed potatoes. -
Can I make a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with mushrooms, lentils, or even a mix of vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. -
Can I use a different type of seasoning?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other spices like paprika, thyme, or rosemary to suit your taste. -
How do I know when the dish is done baking?
The dish is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.