Grilled chicken breast with roasted potatoes

Grilled chicken breast with baked potatoes

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 2

If you are looking for a simple yet incredibly tasty recipe, grilled chicken breast with baked potatoes is the perfect choice! This classic combination will not only delight your taste buds but is also very easy to prepare. A perfect meal for a relaxed lunch or dinner, as well as for when you have guests. Let's get started!

A Brief History

Grilled chicken breast is a beloved recipe in many cultures due to its versatility and quick cooking time. Grilling has been an ancient cooking method used for generations to bring out the natural flavors of the meat. On the other hand, baked potatoes, with their crispy texture and delicious taste, perfectly complement any meat dish.

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 300-400g)
- 6 medium potatoes (preferably red or yellow for better texture)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (for the sauce)
- Olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional spices: paprika, oregano, thyme (for chicken)
- Water (a few tablespoons)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the chicken breast

1. Start by washing the chicken breast under cold water and drying it with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps achieve a delicious crust on the grill.
2. If the breast is too thick, cut it in half to ensure even cooking.
3. Season the breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. A combination of sweet paprika, thyme, and oregano will add a special flavor.

Step 2: Preparing the potatoes

1. Wash the potatoes under running water, then peel them if you prefer. You can leave the skins on for a more rustic taste.
2. Cut the potatoes into thick slices of about 1.5 cm. This will allow them to cook evenly and become crispy.
3. Place the potato slices in a baking dish. Add a few drops of olive oil and sprinkle with water. This will help achieve a crispy texture.
4. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a little paprika for a more intense flavor. Mix everything well so that each slice is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cooking the potatoes in the oven

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Place the dish with potatoes in the oven and let them bake for about 30-35 minutes. Stir them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. The potatoes are ready when they have a golden crust and are soft inside.

Step 4: Cooking the chicken breast on the grill

1. While the potatoes are baking, prepare the grill over medium heat. If you are using an electric grill or grill pan, make sure it is well heated.
2. Place the chicken breast on the grill and let it cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C. Avoid flipping it too often to form a nice crust.

Step 5: Preparing the garlic sauce

1. In a small bowl, crush 2-3 cloves of garlic and mix them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add a teaspoon of lemon juice for a fresher taste.
2. Mix all the ingredients well and let the sauce sit for a few minutes to develop the flavors.

Serving

Once everything is ready, place the chicken breast on a plate next to the browned potatoes. Add the garlic sauce on top of the chicken or serve it separately, allowing each guest to add as much as they want. A fresh side like pickles or a green salad pairs perfectly with this dish, bringing a contrast of flavors and textures.

Useful Tips

- Types of meat: If you want to try a different variation, you can substitute the chicken breast with chicken thighs, which have more flavor.
- Spice variations: Experiment with your favorite spices! Add coriander or cumin for an exotic touch.
- Keeping the meat juicy: Make sure not to overcook the chicken breast to avoid drying it out. A good technique is to let it rest for a few minutes after removing it from the grill before cutting it.
- Alternative sauces: Instead of garlic sauce, you can try a yogurt-based sauce with mint or a spicy tomato sauce.

Nutritional Information

This recipe provides a balanced meal rich in protein and carbohydrates. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, while the tasty potatoes provide fiber and vitamin C. A serving of this recipe can contain approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the sauces added.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure it is completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. How do I keep the potatoes crispy?
Make sure to place them in a single layer in the baking dish and avoid overcrowding.

3. What side dishes go well?
A summer salad or grilled vegetables are perfect options that complement this dish well.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! I encourage you to put your personal touch on this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or experimenting with different techniques. Enjoy your meal!