Description
This comforting recipe features tender chicken bites cooked with aromatic spices and vegetables, nestled inside creamy mashed potato nests topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes
- 10 medium yellow potatoes
- 1/3 cup grated parmigiano
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Chicken Filling
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dry oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Topping & Preparation
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Avocado oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with avocado oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Boil and mash potatoes: Peel the potatoes and boil them in salted water until fork tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot. Mash using a potato masher, then stir in grated parmigiano, milk, and salt and pepper to taste until smooth and creamy.
- Form mashed potato nests: Allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly. Divide into 6 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Place the balls snugly in the prepared baking dish, then create an indent in the center of each to form nests using your hands or a spoon.
- Cook chicken and vegetables: Heat 3 tablespoons of avocado oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly browned. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, paprika, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until vegetables are softened and garlic aroma has mellowed.
- Add tomato paste: Stir the tomato paste into the chicken and vegetable mixture, combining well. Remove the pan from heat once the mixture is evenly incorporated.
- Fill nests and bake: Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into the mashed potato nests. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each filled nest. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown.
Notes
- For a richer mashed potato, you can add butter along with the milk and cheese.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more or less paprika and oregano.
- This dish is best served immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
