These Stuffed Baked Potatoes are a delightful combination of crispy-skinned potatoes, a creamy and flavorful filling made with smoked chicken, garlic, dill, and sour cream or yogurt, all topped with melty cheese. This dish is perfect as a hearty main course or a side dish for any occasion. The combination of smoky, creamy, and cheesy flavors makes this recipe irresistibly addictive!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Potatoes:
- 5 medium potatoes
- 35 ml (2 tbsp) sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 300 g (10.5 oz) smoked chicken breast, shredded
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 200 g (2 cups) grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 300 g (1 ¼ cups) yogurt or sour cream
- Potato pulp (scooped from baked potatoes)
Directions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly, then pat them dry.
- Rub the potatoes with sunflower oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Wrap each potato in aluminum foil and place them on a baking tray.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Prepare the Stuffing:
- Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Unwrap the foil and carefully scoop out the potato pulp, leaving a 1 cm (½ inch) border to maintain the potato’s shape.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the scooped potato pulp, shredded smoked chicken, minced garlic, chopped dill and parsley, grated cheese (reserve a little for topping), and yogurt or sour cream. Mix well to create a creamy filling.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spoon the filling back into the potato shells, packing it firmly.
- Sprinkle the reserved grated cheese over the top of each stuffed potato.
- Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking tray and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes at 190°C (375°F), or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve:
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with extra dill or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
5 Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside grilled meats like steak or chicken for a hearty dinner.
- Add a dollop of extra sour cream or yogurt on top for added creaminess.
- Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli.
- Serve as an appetizer or side dish for holiday meals or parties.
Cooking Tips:
- Choose potatoes that are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Be gentle when scooping out the potato pulp to avoid breaking the skins.
- For extra flavor, add chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits to the filling.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer, gooier topping.
- To save time, bake the potatoes ahead and assemble the stuffing just before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes are a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
- Smoked chicken provides lean protein.
- Yogurt or sour cream adds calcium and probiotics for gut health.
- Fresh dill and parsley are packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free.
- Not suitable for dairy-free diets unless cheese and yogurt are substituted with dairy-free options.
Nutritional Facts (per stuffed potato, approximate):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbs: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
- Not recommended for freezing due to the creamy filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- A comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs, spices, or cheese.
- Combines crispy, smoky, and creamy flavors for a satisfying bite.
- Simple to make yet impressive enough to serve to guests.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Baked Potatoes with Smoked Chicken and Cheese are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The crispy potato skin and creamy, cheesy filling create a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Try this recipe today and enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!
10 Frequently Asked Questions with Answers:
- Can I use leftover chicken instead of smoked chicken?
Yes, leftover roasted or grilled chicken works well as a substitute. - Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a unique flavor and work just as well. - What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both are excellent choices. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed potatoes and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving. - What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt or cream cheese are great alternatives. - How do I prevent the potato skins from breaking?
Be gentle when scooping out the potato pulp and leave a sturdy border. - Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Yes, bacon bits, green onions, or jalapeños are great additions. - Can I skip the foil when baking the potatoes?
Yes, but wrapping them in foil helps retain moisture and makes the skins tender. - What can I serve alongside this dish?
A fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a light soup pairs well with these stuffed potatoes. - Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or extra cheese for a vegetarian version.