Comfort food at its finest—tender chicken chunks baked under a bubbling layer of cheese and buttery mashed potatoes, all served in rustic clay bowls for a cozy and homey presentation. This dish brings together wholesome ingredients in a hearty, comforting way that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a comforting blend of creamy mashed potatoes, savory chicken, and melted cheese—all baked to perfection. It’s simple yet satisfying, offering a complete meal in one dish. The rustic presentation in clay bowls adds charm, making it a cozy favorite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a small group of friends, this recipe delivers on both flavor and comfort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- cooked chicken breast, cubed
- mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- onion, finely chopped
- garlic, minced
- tomato sauce
- smoked paprika
- olive oil
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
- chives, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add the cubed chicken, tomato sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
- In oven-safe clay bowls or ramekins, layer a spoonful of mashed potatoes at the bottom.
- Spoon the chicken mixture on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Garnish with chopped chives and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, and baking takes 15–20 minutes, making the total cooking time around 30–35 minutes.
Variations
- Add vegetables: Stir in cooked peas, carrots, or corn with the chicken mixture for added nutrition.
- Spicy twist: Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella and add red chili flakes for heat.
- BBQ flavor: Replace tomato sauce with barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy profile.
- Creamy version: Mix in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream with the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
- Herb blend: Add thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to the chicken for aromatic depth.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes), or use a microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.
FAQs
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken mixture and mashed potatoes a day ahead. Assemble the bowls and store them in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves prep time.
What kind of mashed potatoes should I use?
Both homemade and store-bought mashed potatoes work. For best flavor, use buttery mashed potatoes.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check packaging to be sure.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or sautéed mushrooms.
What other cheese can I use?
Cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend can be used instead of mozzarella.
Do I need to use clay bowls?
No, any oven-safe dish will work. Clay bowls simply add a rustic presentation.
Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Yes, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
What side dishes go well with this?
A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments.
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes is a heartwarming, flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare and deeply satisfying. Its layers of savory chicken, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese make it a go-to meal for comfort and ease. With make-ahead options and room for customization, it’s a versatile recipe that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire.
Print
Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Comfort food at its finest—tender chicken chunks baked under a bubbling layer of cheese and buttery mashed potatoes, all served in rustic clay bowls for a cozy and homey presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
- 2 tablespoons chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add cubed chicken, tomato sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- In oven-safe clay bowls or ramekins, layer a spoonful of mashed potatoes at the bottom.
- Spoon the chicken mixture over the mashed potatoes.
- Top generously with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish with chopped chives and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience.
- Can be assembled ahead and baked when ready to serve.
- Try adding a layer of vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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