Oven-baked chicken breast with red pepper, mashed potatoes, and spinach in orange sauce

Oven-Baked Chicken Breast with Red Pepper, Mashed Potatoes, and Spinach in Orange Sauce

Are you looking for a recipe that will impress at a special dinner? The oven-baked chicken breast with red pepper, served with creamy mashed potatoes and a vibrant orange sauce, is the perfect choice. This recipe not only offers a delicious taste but also a refined presentation that will turn any meal into a true feast. Let’s explore together how to prepare this savory dish!

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 15-20 minutes
- Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:

For the chicken breast:
- 200 g chicken breast
- 15 g red peppercorns
- 10 ml olive oil
- 5 g herbs (e.g., oregano, thyme)
- Salt to taste

For the mashed potatoes:
- 250 g potatoes (preferably red or white potatoes for a creamier mash)
- 20 g butter
- 50 ml milk (or plant-based milk for a lighter option)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the orange sauce:
- 50 g instant hollandaise sauce (Knorr or similar brand)
- 150 ml freshly squeezed orange juice

For the spinach garnish:
- 25 g baby spinach
- 5 ml olive oil

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preparing the chicken breast:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This step is essential for achieving even cooking and a tasty crust.
- In a mortar, crush the red peppercorns until they become a coarse powder. This seasoning will add a spicy and aromatic note to your chicken.
- In a bowl, add the chicken breast and coat it with olive oil. Sprinkle the crushed pepper and herbs, mixing well to combine the flavors. Let it marinate for a few minutes.

2. Baking the chicken breast:
- Place the chicken breast in a baking tray lined with parchment paper and put it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is golden and juicy. It’s important to check with a kitchen thermometer that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 75 degrees Celsius.

3. Preparing the mashed potatoes:
- While the chicken is baking, peel and cube the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until soft (about 15 minutes). Once cooked, drain them and mash with a potato masher or mixer, gradually adding the butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. A trick for creamier mashed potatoes is to use boiled potatoes and add warm milk.

4. Preparing the orange sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the instant hollandaise sauce with the orange juice. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the sauce thickens slightly. This sauce will bring a note of freshness and acidity that will balance the dish.

5. Preparing the spinach garnish:
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the baby spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the leaves become tender. You can add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

6. Assembling the dish:
- Once the chicken breast is baked, slice it in half. On an elegant plate, mold the mashed potatoes using a round mold. Carefully place the chicken breast on top and garnish with the sautéed spinach. Finally, pour the orange sauce around the dish for an impressive presentation.

Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a citrus cocktail. You can also add a simple green salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Possible Variations:
- Instead of mashed potatoes, you can opt for cauliflower mash for a lighter option.
- In the orange sauce, you can add a bit of honey for a sweeter taste or some grated ginger for an extra kick of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while spinach is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Mashed potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, and the orange sauce brings vitamin C, contributing to a nutritious and balanced dish.

Calories:
This recipe has approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.
- How can I make the orange sauce from fresh ingredients? You can prepare a hollandaise sauce from scratch using egg yolks, melted butter, and freshly squeezed orange juice for a more authentic taste.

Conclusion:
Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to get cooking! This recipe for oven-baked chicken breast with red pepper, mashed potatoes, and orange sauce will not disappoint but will bring joy and satisfaction in every bite. I invite you to experiment and put your personal touch on this dish. Enjoy your meal!