Potato gratin with chicken

Potato Gratin with Chicken: a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the flavor of creamy potatoes with juicy meat and the aroma of garlic and onion? The potato gratin with chicken is a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also create unforgettable moments around the table with your loved ones. This recipe is perfect for a family Sunday lunch or a cozy dinner after a long day.

Let's embark together on the preparation of this savory gratin!

Ingredients

- 750 g potatoes (about 5-6 medium potatoes)
- 400 g poultry meat (chicken, turkey, or duck)
- 50 g butter (for greasing the dish and for flavor)
- 50 g breadcrumbs (to line the dish)
- 2 small onions (white or yellow)
- 100 g bacon or ham (optional, but recommended for a richer taste)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 3 eggs
- 250 ml cream (for cooking)
- 100 g cheese (grated)
- Salt, pepper, and other spices to taste (paprika, oregano, basil)

Brief history

Potato gratin is a traditional dish, often associated with rustic meals from various cultures. This gratin recipe has evolved over time, yet it retains its essence of comfort and warmth. It is an excellent way to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and the combination of potatoes with meat and cheese makes it a versatile dish that you can adapt to your tastes.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose firm potatoes, free of spots or soft areas. Once peeled, boil them in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until they are slightly soft but not fully cooked. After boiling, drain them and let them cool slightly, then slice them into rounds about 1 cm thick.

2. Boiling the meat: In a separate pot, boil the poultry meat in salted water for about 20-25 minutes. It is important not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once boiled, remove the meat and let it cool, then cut it into cubes or strips.

3. Preparing the filling: In a pan, add a tablespoon of butter and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the diced bacon or ham and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes. Finally, add the crushed garlic and let it sauté for a minute until it releases its aroma.

4. Assembling the gratin: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Take a baking dish and grease it with butter, then line it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking. Place a layer of potato rounds at the bottom of the dish, followed by the onion and ham mixture. Then, add the pieces of boiled meat, pressing them down slightly to integrate.

5. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, beat the eggs together with the cream and grated cheese, adding salt and pepper to taste. Pour this mixture evenly over the composition in the dish, ensuring all ingredients are well covered.

6. Baking the gratin: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top becomes golden and crispy. This is when the aroma will fill the entire house, and your appetite will become unbearable.

7. Serving: Once the gratin is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Helpful tips

- Choosing potatoes: "Mashed potatoes" type potatoes are best for gratin. They become creamy and integrate perfectly into the recipe.
- Meat variations: You can replace poultry meat with pork or beef, depending on your preferences. Also, for a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Spices: Play with spices! Add a pinch of nutmeg for a more sophisticated flavor or Italian spices for a Mediterranean touch.
- Serving: This gratin pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a yogurt herb sauce, which will balance the richness of the dish.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
Yes, it is possible, but make sure they are not too soft, otherwise they will break down during baking.

What other types of cheese can I use?
You can experiment with feta or mozzarella for a different texture.

How well does this gratin keep?
The gratin keeps well in the fridge in airtight containers for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional benefits

This potato gratin with chicken recipe is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the poultry meat, and complex carbohydrates from the potatoes. Additionally, garlic provides benefits for the immune system, while cheese adds essential calcium for bone health. Depending on the ingredients used, you can adapt the recipe to fit a varied diet.

In conclusion, potato gratin with chicken is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that can become a favorite on your menu. Don't hesitate to experiment and bring your personal touch to this classic dish. Enjoy your meal!