Mashed Potato and Chicken Pie

Chicken and Mashed Potato Pie - A Comforting and Satisfying Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken and mashed potato pie is a comforting dish, perfect for those evenings when we want to indulge in a tasty meal while delighting our taste buds. This recipe combines the flavor and tenderness of chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, offering a perfect texture and exceptional taste. Over time, mashed potato pie has become a symbol of family meals, bringing loved ones together in a warm and welcoming way.

Ingredients

- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 300-400 g)
- 1 small jar of sliced mushrooms (approximately 400 g)
- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 1 medium bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 7-8 large potatoes (approximately 1 kg)
- Butter (approximately 50 g for greasing and 50 g for mash)
- 3 tablespoons sour cream

A Bit About the Ingredients

Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, while mushrooms add flavor and an interesting texture. Tomatoes, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, provide a fresh touch to the dish. The bell pepper not only adds a sweet taste but also a vibrant color. The potatoes form the base of this creamy mash, with butter and sour cream making them irresistible.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the meat
Start by preparing the chicken breast. Wash it well under cold running water and cut it into suitable pieces. This will help the meat cook evenly.

2. Chopping the vegetables
Peel and finely chop the onion. The tomatoes should be peeled (you can dip them in hot water for 1-2 minutes to make peeling easier) and diced. Remove the seeds and stem from the bell pepper, then chop it into small cubes. Drain and rinse the mushrooms under cold water to remove excess salt.

3. Cooking the meat and vegetables
In a large skillet, add a little oil (or, if using a non-stick skillet, no oil is needed) and sauté the chopped chicken breast over medium heat until golden. Then, add the onion, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Let the vegetables soften, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the bell pepper and water
Once the vegetables have softened, add the chopped bell pepper and a cup of water. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat until the water significantly reduces. This step is important as it helps intensify the flavors.

5. Seasoning the mixture
When the mixture has reduced, add the basil, salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Let it simmer for another minute to combine the flavors, then remove the skillet from heat.

6. Preparing the mashed potatoes
Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Place them in a pot, cover with cold water, and add a little salt. Let them boil over medium heat until soft (about 15-20 minutes). When done, drain the water and add the butter and sour cream. Using a potato masher, create a creamy and smooth mash.

7. Assembling the pie
Grease a baking dish with butter. Place half of the mashed potatoes at the bottom of the dish, then add the meat and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top, then cover with the remaining mashed potatoes, leveling it well.

8. Baking the pie
Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top mash turns golden brown.

9. Serving
After the pie has cooled slightly, you can slice and serve it. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a fresh salad.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra flavor boost, you can add grated cheese on top of the mash before baking. Additionally, for a more intense taste, experiment with spices like oregano or rosemary. If you want a vegetarian option, replace the chicken breast with lentils or tofu.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with beef or pork, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the mash more flavorful?
You can add crushed garlic or Parmesan cheese to the mash for a richer taste.

3. Is the pie good for reheating?
Absolutely! The pie reheats very well in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional Information

This chicken and mashed potato pie contains approximately 500 calories per serving, being an excellent source of protein due to the chicken and nutrients from the vegetables. The potatoes provide essential carbohydrates, while the sour cream and butter contribute to healthy fat intake.

Conclusion

Chicken and mashed potato pie is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can achieve a delicious result. I encourage every cooking enthusiast to try this recipe and personalize it according to their preferences. Enjoy your meal!