Gratinated potatoes with chicken breast and smoked meat

Delicious Recipe for Gratin Potatoes with Chicken Breast and Smoked Meat

I invite you to discover a recipe that combines flavor and the comfort of home: gratin potatoes with chicken breast and smoked meat. This dish is perfect for family meals or a dinner with friends, being a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Let's embark, step by step, on this culinary journey!

Total preparation time: 90 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60-70 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes (approximately 400-500 g)
- 200 g cheese
- 200 g salty cheese (I recommend cow cheese or feta cheese)
- 100 g sour cheese
- 1/2 chicken breast (approximately 250 g)
- 4 slices of smoked pork belly (or any type of smoked meat you prefer)
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing the dish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the potatoes under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, you can peel them if you prefer. Slice them thinly, about 3-4 mm, for even baking. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to achieve perfect slices.

2. Cutting the meat: Cut the chicken breast into small cubes, about 1-2 cm, so that it cooks easily and integrates well into the dish. If using smoked meat, cut the slices into small pieces that will distribute evenly among the layers of potatoes.

3. Preparing the layers: In a baking dish, start with a layer of potatoes. Make sure to arrange them evenly to avoid uneven baking. The next layer consists of salty cheese, which will add a savory note. You can use a fork to crumble the cheese so that it distributes better. Continue with a layer of chicken meat, then add a layer of grated cheese.

4. Adding the sour cream and eggs: In a bowl, beat the two eggs with the sour cream, adding salt and pepper to taste. Pour half of the egg and sour cream mixture over the meat layer, then continue with another layer of potatoes, followed by sour cheese and smoked meat. Repeat the process, finishing with a final layer of potatoes and sprinkling grated cheese on top.

5. Baking: Pour the remaining egg and sour cream mixture over the last layer. Cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to prevent burning on top. Then, remove the foil and leave the dish in the oven for another 30-40 minutes at a temperature of 180 degrees Celsius. You will see how the cheese melts and forms a golden, appetizing crust.

6. Serving: Let the gratin potatoes cool for a few minutes before cutting them. Serve them warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or pickles, which will perfectly complement the rich flavor of the dish.

Useful tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add some herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, in the layers.
- If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken breast with mushrooms or vegetables of your choice.
- This dish is ideal for preparing in advance. You can assemble the gratin potatoes a day ahead, cover them, and keep them in the fridge, and then pop them directly in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. The cheeses bring calcium and protein, while chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein necessary for maintaining muscle mass. This recipe is a balanced meal that combines taste and nutrition.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use lactose-free cheese? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using lactose-free cheeses to make it easier to digest.
2. What type of smoked meat would work well? You can experiment with different types of smoked meat, such as bacon, smoked sausages, or even smoked salmon for a more sophisticated version.
3. How can I reheat leftovers? The best way is to reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to preserve the crispy texture of the potatoes.

I hope this recipe for gratin potatoes with chicken breast and smoked meat will inspire you to start cooking and surprise your family and friends with a delicious dish. Enjoy your meal!