This Hearty Chicken and Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender potatoes, seasoned chicken, and a creamy egg mixture, all topped with mozzarella cheese for a golden finish. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare and absolutely satisfying. The optional refreshing cucumber sauce adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the dish, making it even more irresistible!
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Cuisine
This recipe is a fusion of comfort food with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The combination of tender potatoes, savory chicken, and the creamy egg mixture creates a rich, filling dish that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Full List of Ingredients
For the Hearty Base:
- 500g potatoes (peeled and sliced)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for drizzling
For the Savory Chicken:
- 400g chicken fillet, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
For the Creamy Egg Mixture:
- 4 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 200g sour cream
For the Veggie Medley:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 100g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100g mozzarella cheese, grated
For the Refreshing Sauce (Optional):
- 60g sour cream
- 40g mayonnaise
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cucumber, grated
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Spring onions, chopped
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prep the Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Arrange them evenly in a baking dish.
- Season the potatoes generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. Drizzle with vegetable oil and toss to coat evenly.
2. Season the Chicken:
- In a separate bowl, toss the chopped chicken fillet with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano until the chicken is well-coated with the seasonings.
3. Layer It Up:
- Spread the seasoned chicken pieces evenly over the potatoes in the baking dish, making sure to cover the potatoes with the chicken.
4. Whisk the Eggs:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, black pepper, and sour cream. This will create a creamy mixture that will coat the potatoes and chicken.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes, making sure it’s well-distributed.
5. Top the Bake:
- Sprinkle the chopped onion and halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the top of the dish.
- Finish by adding a blanket of grated mozzarella cheese on top for that rich, melty goodness.
6. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, the chicken is cooked through, and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Whip Up the Sauce (Optional):
- While the bake is cooking, prepare the optional sauce by combining sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and minced garlic in a bowl. Stir to combine.
- Add the grated cucumber, chopped dill, and spring onions to the sauce for a refreshing and tangy addition to the dish.
8. Serve and Devour:
- Let the bake cool slightly before serving. Serve it with or without the refreshing cucumber sauce, and enjoy the rich, creamy, and flavorful layers of this dish!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugars: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Cholesterol: 170 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This Hearty Chicken and Potato Bake combines classic comfort food with a Mediterranean twist. The use of potatoes and chicken as the base, with an egg mixture to bind it all together, makes it a satisfying dish loved by many. The optional cucumber sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, making this dish versatile for both cozy dinners and casual gatherings.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tender potatoes, seasoned chicken, and creamy egg mixture creates a filling dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal.
- Easy One-Pan Meal: This recipe is simple to prepare and doesn’t require multiple pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze.
- Cheesy Goodness: The melted mozzarella cheese on top adds a deliciously rich and gooey finish that makes this bake irresistible.
- Optional Refreshing Sauce: The cucumber sauce offers a tangy and fresh contrast to the richness of the bake, making it even more delightful.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Packed: The chicken and eggs provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables, such as onions and tomatoes, are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which support immune health and promote healthy skin.
- Calcium: The mozzarella cheese provides calcium, which is important for bone health.
- Fiber: The potatoes and vegetables contribute fiber to the dish, aiding digestion and supporting gut health.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair this hearty dish with a fresh green salad or a Mediterranean-style salad with olives and feta for a balanced meal.
- Serve with Rice or Quinoa: To make the meal even more filling, serve the bake with a side of rice or quinoa.
- With Yogurt or Sour Cream: For extra creaminess, serve with a dollop of plain yogurt or more sour cream.
Cooking Tips
- Layering the Ingredients: Be sure to layer the potatoes and chicken evenly to ensure that every bite has a good balance of flavors and textures.
- Check for Tenderness: Use a fork to check the tenderness of the potatoes before removing the dish from the oven. If the potatoes are not fully tender, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley add a burst of flavor, but you can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil.
Variations to Try
- Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the bake for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
- Meat Alternatives: Swap the chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based protein for a different twist.
Conclusion
This Hearty Chicken and Potato Bake is the perfect combination of rich, creamy flavors and tender textures, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to dish in your kitchen. Serve it with a refreshing cucumber sauce for an added layer of flavor and enjoy a comforting meal that’s both hearty and delicious!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze this bake?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the freezer. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
3. Can I add more vegetables to the bake?
Yes, you can add additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make the dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese substitute and plant-based sour cream. You can also use a dairy-free milk alternative for the egg mixture.
5. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or Parmesan for a different flavor.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the texture.
7. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
8. How can I make the potatoes cook faster?
Slice the potatoes thinly or pre-cook them in the microwave before assembling the dish to speed up cooking.
9. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred or chop it before layering.
10. Can I add a crunchy topping?
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the cheese before baking.