Stuffed baked potatoes are a timeless comfort food, cherished for their versatility and hearty nature. This particular rendition elevates the classic by incorporating smoked chicken and a blend of cheeses, resulting in a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. The smoky flavor of the chicken complements the creamy texture of the potatoes, while the melted cheese adds a rich, savory depth. Ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week, these stuffed potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
- 200 grams (approximately 7 ounces) smoked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- A dollop of sour cream
Directions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
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Prepare the Potatoes:
- Thoroughly wash and dry the russet potatoes.
- Using a fork, pierce each potato several times to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
-
Bake the Potatoes:
- Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
-
Prepare the Filling:
- While the potatoes are baking, dice the smoked chicken breast into small cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced smoked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, softened butter, chopped chives, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Taste the mixture and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
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Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, gently scoop out the flesh of each potato half, leaving a small border to maintain the structure of the skins.
- Add the scooped-out potato flesh to the smoked chicken mixture.
- Mash and mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
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Stuff and Bake Again:
- Spoon the prepared filling back into the hollowed-out potato skins, mounding it slightly for a generous portion.
- If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed potato.
- Place the stuffed potatoes back onto the baking sheet.
- Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
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Serve:
- Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, and add a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Protein: 22 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9 grams
- Cholesterol: 75 milligrams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Potassium: 1,200 milligrams
- Vitamin A: 600 IU
- Vitamin C: 20 milligrams
- Calcium: 250 milligrams
- Iron: 2 milligrams
Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use regular cooked chicken instead of smoked chicken?
Yes! Grilled, roasted, or shredded chicken works well. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
2. What’s the best way to get crispy potato skins?
Rubbing the potatoes with olive oil and salt before baking helps them crisp up beautifully.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the potatoes, then store them in the fridge. Bake just before serving.
4. What cheese melts best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Gouda, and Monterey Jack melt beautifully and add great flavor.
5. Are these stuffed potatoes gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your seasonings and add-ins are gluten-free.
6. Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a hint of natural sweetness and work wonderfully with the savory filling.
7. How do I prevent the filling from getting dry?
Adding enough butter, sour cream, and cheese keeps the filling moist and creamy.
8. Can I air-fry these stuffed potatoes?
Yes! Air-fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Final Thoughts
These Stuffed Baked Potatoes with Smoked Chicken and Cheese are a true comfort food that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a hearty, cheesy, and smoky delight! 😋