Chicken with polenta gratin

Chicken with Gratinated Polenta – A Comforting and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

A recipe for chicken with gratinated polenta is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, bringing together the rich flavors of chicken, the creamy texture of polenta, and the savoriness of cheeses. This recipe is a combination of tradition and innovation, rooted in rustic dishes but offering a modern twist through the gratin technique.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 100 g cheese
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 100 g sheep cheese
- 1 cup olive oil
- Cornmeal (for polenta, the necessary amount depends on preferences, but around 200 g is ideal)
- 1 bag of frozen vegetable mix (approximately 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard

Preparing the polenta:

1. Boil water: In a medium pot, add 1 liter of water and bring to a boil. This step is crucial, as the polenta needs to be cooked in a hot environment to achieve a creamy texture.

2. Add the cornmeal: When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, constantly stirring with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming.

3. Cook the polenta: Continue to stir and cook the polenta on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.

4. Cool the polenta: Once cooked, pour the polenta into a tray lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper, smoothing it out with a spatula. Let it cool completely, then cut it into thick slices about a finger wide.

Preparing the gratin:

5. Cut the polenta: From the slices of polenta, cut out rounds using a glass or a cookie cutter. This will provide an elegant presentation for the dish.

6. Assemble the gratin: On each round of polenta, place a slice of cheese, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and add a tablespoon of sheep cheese. Drizzle everything with olive oil to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

7. Bake the gratin: Arrange the rounds on a tray lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and slightly browned.

Preparing the chicken and vegetables:

8. Cut the chicken: Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into thin strips (julienne) or cubes, depending on your preference.

9. Fry the chicken: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and fry the chicken over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until golden and well cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

10. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the frozen vegetable mix and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until thawed and heated through. You can also add spices to taste, such as salt, pepper, or herbs.

Serving the dish:

11. Assemble the plate: On each plate, arrange the cooked chicken, add the sautéed vegetables, and place 2-3 rounds of gratinated polenta alongside.

12. Finish the dish: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle the mustard sauce (made from mustard mixed with olive oil) over all the ingredients. This sauce will add a spicy note and perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Serving suggestions:

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh arugula salad or a dry white wine, which will balance the intense flavors of the cheese and chicken. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese; for example, feta or mozzarella can add a different and interesting taste.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while polenta provides complex carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. Sheep cheese adds calcium, and vegetables enrich the dish with vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I substitute polenta with another type of side dish?
Yes, you can use mashed potatoes or quinoa for a different version.

- Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
You can adapt the recipe by removing the chicken and adding more vegetables or a source of plant-based protein, such as chickpeas.

- How can I store the dish?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave.

So, don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe for chicken with gratinated polenta! It is not only simple but also very satisfying, and the flavors will delight anyone who tastes it. Enjoy!