Grilled chicken breast with puree

Grilled chicken breast with mashed potatoes

Are you looking for a delicious and comforting recipe for a quick dinner? Grilled chicken breast with mashed potatoes is the perfect choice! This classic combination will not only delight your taste buds but is also extremely easy to prepare. Plus, the creamy mashed potatoes pair well with the juicy meat, turning an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast (about 500g)
- 1.5 kg potatoes
- 1 tablespoon margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- Spices of your choice (e.g. paprika, garlic powder, herbs de Provence)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper
- 200 ml milk (you can also use plant-based milk if you prefer)
- A splash of olive or sunflower oil

Recipe history:
Grilled chicken breast is a dish that has gained popularity worldwide due to its versatility. It can be served in countless ways and is often associated with healthy meals. On the other hand, mashed potatoes are a traditional dish that adds a touch of comfort to any meal. Together, these two simple ingredients create a savory meal, perfect for both family dinners and special occasions.

Preparing the ingredients:
1. Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose medium-sized potatoes that are firm and blemish-free. Wash them well under running water to remove dirt.
2. Cut the potatoes into quarters or pieces about 2-3 cm to cook evenly.
3. Place them in a pot with cold water and a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil.

Cooking the chicken breast:
1. Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into desired slices. The slices can be thicker or thinner, depending on your preferences. When cutting, make sure to slightly score one side to allow the spices to penetrate better.
2. Sprinkle the spices and pepper on both sides of the chicken slices. If you have time, let them marinate for 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil. When the oil is hot, place the chicken slices in the pan. Let them brown for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. You can check if they are done by cutting into a slice - the juice should run clear, without blood.

Preparing the mashed potatoes:
1. When the potatoes are cooked (check by piercing them with a fork; they should be soft), drain them well.
2. Place them in a large bowl and start mashing with a potato masher.
3. Gradually add warm milk, margarine (or butter), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue mashing until you achieve a creamy and smooth texture. If you like your mash softer, you can add a little more milk.

Serving:
1. On a plate, place a generous portion of mash and top it with the browned chicken slices.
2. You can add a side of pickled cucumbers, which provide a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tip:
If you want to add extra flavor to the chicken breast, you can marinate it a day in advance. A marinade of yogurt with garlic and lemon will make the meat extremely tender and flavorful.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken breast? Yes, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- How can I make the mash creamier? Use butter instead of margarine and whole milk or cooking cream.
- What other sides would go well with this dish? A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables are excellent options.

Delicious combinations:
This recipe for grilled chicken breast with mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade, making it ideal for a summer dinner.

Possible variations:
For a more sophisticated version, you can add sauces like mustard sauce or mushroom sauce when serving. You can also experiment with different spices, such as curry or chili, to give the dish an interesting twist.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This meal provides a good source of protein from the chicken breast and healthy carbohydrates from the potatoes. A serving contains about 450 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Potatoes are rich in potassium and vitamin C, while chicken breast is an excellent choice for a healthy lifestyle.

I encourage you to try this simple and quick recipe, perfect for any occasion! Whether it's a family dinner or a meal with friends, grilled chicken breast with mashed potatoes will surely be a hit. Bon appétit!