Oven-baked chicken breast with corn, peppers, and mashed potatoes

Chicken Breast with Corn, Peppers, and Baked Mashed Potatoes: A Quick and Tasty Dinner from Leftovers

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a quick and delicious dinner that transforms leftovers from the fridge into something memorable? This recipe for chicken breast with corn, peppers, and baked mashed potatoes is the perfect choice for those days when you want to save time but are not willing to compromise on taste. Whether you have leftover chicken from a previous dinner or mashed potatoes from yesterday, this recipe is ideal for turning them into a comforting and satisfying dish.

A Brief History

Recipes that use leftovers are not only practical but also an excellent way to reduce food waste. This dish combines common ingredients in a way that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a variety of textures and flavors to the table. Over time, cooking with leftovers has been an art, and this recipe is a perfect example of how you can transform simple ingredients into something special.

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 300-400 g)
- 6 tablespoons of mashed potatoes (approximately 250 g)
- ½ pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 150 g sweet corn (can be canned or frozen)
- 170 g grated cheese
- 150 ml semi-dry white wine
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken breast into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking. The pepper should be sliced into thin strips, and the cheese should be grated. If using canned corn, make sure it is well-drained.

2. Assembling the Dish: Choose a heatproof dish large enough to hold all the ingredients. Place the chicken cubes at the bottom of the dish and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Add the drained corn and pepper strips, gently mixing to distribute the ingredients evenly.

3. Adding the Wine and Cheese: Pour the semi-dry white wine over the chicken, corn, and pepper mixture. This will add a delicate flavor and help keep the meat juicy. Then, sprinkle half of the grated cheese on top.

4. The Mashed Potatoes: Use a spatula to spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat and vegetable mixture. Make sure the mashed potatoes completely cover the ingredients underneath to prevent them from drying out during baking.

5. Finalizing the Dish: Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes. This will melt and form a golden, crispy crust, adding extra flavor.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the ingredients are well cooked.

Serving and Suggestions

Once the dish is ready, let it cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chili pepper for an extra pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a side of pickles, which will add a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips

- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, depending on your preferences. Substitute the cheese with feta or mozzarella to change the flavor profile.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture of the cheese.
- Nutrition: This recipe is rich in protein from the chicken breast and fiber from the corn and peppers, making it a healthy option for a quick dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen chicken?: It is recommended to thaw the meat before preparation to ensure even cooking.
- What type of wine should I choose?: A semi-dry white wine is ideal, but you can also use a light red wine, depending on your preferences.
- Can I omit the mashed potatoes?: Of course, you can use another type of side dish or even serve the dish with rice or pasta.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of this dish contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the exact amount of cheese used. It is a nutritionally balanced meal, providing proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins from the vegetables.

Conclusion

This recipe for chicken breast with corn, peppers, and baked mashed potatoes is not only an ingenious way to use leftovers but also a comforting dinner that will satisfy the whole family. With a rich flavor and creamy texture, it is the perfect choice for a relaxing evening at home. Try it and let yourself be carried away by the flavors and colors of this simple and delicious meal!