These innovative oatmeal baskets transform simple oats into edible containers filled with savory chicken and vegetables. This flourless recipe creates a hearty, protein-rich meal that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The oat-based pastry provides a nutritious alternative to traditional flour crusts while delivering satisfying texture and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Oat Baskets:
- 170ml (5.75 fl oz / ¾ cup) water
- 90g (3.17 oz / 1 cup) instant oat flakes
- 50g (1.76 oz / 3.5 tablespoons) butter
- Pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 50g (1.76 oz / ½ cup) mozzarella cheese, finely grated
For the Filling:
- 200g (7 oz) chicken breast, diced
- 150g (5.3 oz) mushrooms (king oyster or button), sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 3 tablespoons (45ml / 1.5 fl oz) sour cream
- 2 tablespoons (30ml / 1 fl oz) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chicken seasoning blend
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs
- Extra mozzarella for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Oat Base
Bring water, butter, and a pinch of salt to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to minimum and gradually add instant oat flakes, stirring constantly.
Step 2: Cook the Oatmeal
Cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously until the mixture reaches a thick, porridge-like consistency. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Cool the Mixture
Transfer to a bowl and stir frequently to cool the oatmeal faster. Let it cool until it’s warm but not hot to touch.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Beat eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the cooled oatmeal mixture in two stages, mixing well after each addition.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Fold in the finely grated mozzarella cheese until evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture.
Step 6: Shape the Baskets
Transfer mixture to a piping bag or use wet hands to shape into basket forms in greased muffin tins. Create a well in the center of each portion for the filling.
Step 7: First Bake
Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the oat baskets for 15 minutes until set and lightly golden.
Step 8: Prepare Chicken Filling
Season diced chicken breast with salt and chicken spices. Heat olive oil in a pan and cook chicken for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 9: Cook Vegetables
In the same pan, sauté sliced mushrooms for 5 minutes until golden. Add diced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
Step 10: Combine Filling
Return chicken to the pan with vegetables. Add sour cream, dried herbs, and salt to taste. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
Step 11: Fill Baskets
Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into the baked oat baskets. Top each with additional grated mozzarella cheese.
Step 12: Final Bake
Return to oven and bake for 10 minutes at 180°C (356°F) until cheese is melted and golden.
Time and Serving Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serves: 6 baskets
Nutrition (Per Basket)
Calories: 185 | Protein: 15g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g
Why These Oat Baskets Support Balanced Nutrition
These flourless baskets provide sustained energy through complex carbohydrates from oats while delivering high-quality protein from chicken, eggs, and cheese. Oats contribute beta-glucan fiber, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and supports heart health. The vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and additional fiber, while mushrooms provide selenium and B vitamins. This combination creates a well-balanced meal that supports muscle maintenance and provides lasting satisfaction without refined flour or added sugars, making it suitable for various dietary approaches focused on whole foods nutrition.