This chicken and potato casserole is not only easy to prepare but also nutritious, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty family dinner. With layers of crispy potatoes, tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and gooey mozzarella cheese, this dish combines familiar flavors in a wholesome, filling way. It’s a one-pan recipe that everyone in the family will love, and it’s packed with protein, vegetables, and comforting flavors. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes, sliced
- Oil, for frying (olive or vegetable oil works best)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 450 g (1 lb) chicken breasts, cut into pieces
- 4 eggs
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) milk
- Green onions, chopped (to taste)
- 4 tomatoes, sliced
- Italian herbs, to taste (use a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 4–5 mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup (120 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preparing the base of the casserole: the crispy fried potatoes. Slice 3 medium potatoes thinly to create even rounds. In a large frying pan, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, fry the potato slices in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges, which should take about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove the fried potatoes from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Season with salt and pepper while still warm, and set them aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
While the potatoes are frying, prepare the chicken. Cut 450 g (1 lb) of chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In another pan, heat a little oil and cook the chicken over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the chicken is golden brown on the outside and cooked through, remove it from the pan.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the chicken is cooked on the stovetop, transfer it to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to allow the chicken to finish cooking and develop a deeper flavor.
3. Assemble the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, crack 4 eggs and whisk them together with 3 tbsp (45 ml) of milk. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chopped green onions to the egg mixture, giving it a pop of freshness and flavor.
Next, add 4 sliced tomatoes and the Italian herbs to the mixture. The herbs should be added to taste—typically, 1 teaspoon of a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works well. Finally, mix in the sliced mushrooms. This egg mixture will hold the casserole together while adding a soft, savory layer.
4. Layer the Casserole
Now it’s time to assemble the casserole. In an ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, begin by layering the fried potato slices at the bottom. Ensure the slices are spread out evenly to form a base layer that will provide texture and flavor.
Once the potatoes are laid down, spread the cooked chicken evenly on top. Pour the egg mixture with the vegetables (green onions, tomatoes, and mushrooms) over the chicken and potatoes. The egg will seep down between the layers, binding everything together during baking.
To finish, sprinkle 1 cup (120 g) of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. This will melt beautifully and form a golden, bubbly crust once baked.
5. Bake the Dish
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the dish as it bakes—the casserole is ready when the cheese on top is golden brown, and the egg mixture has set. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are slightly crispy, and the middle no longer jiggles when you move the dish.
6. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time will help the casserole set and make it easier to cut into portions. Garnish with a few extra chopped green onions for added freshness and a burst of color.
7. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve this casserole hot and enjoy its balanced combination of crispy potatoes, tender chicken, and melted mozzarella. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal. This dish is so satisfying that your family will ask for it again and again!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 portion (serves 4)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg
- Sodium: 410 mg
Final Thoughts
This Simple and Healthy Chicken and Potato Casserole is a fantastic way to bring together wholesome ingredients in a family-friendly meal. With the combination of protein-rich chicken, vitamin-packed potatoes and vegetables, and creamy mozzarella, you’ll have a dish that not only satisfies but also nourishes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a fuss-free dinner that everyone will enjoy. Best of all, it’s easily customizable—swap the mushrooms for bell peppers or add some spinach for extra greens!