Soufflé with mashed potatoes and chicken thighs

Potato puree and chicken thighs soufflé – a delicious and comforting combination

I propose a recipe that perfectly combines two dishes into one: a creamy potato soufflé with browned chicken thighs. It is a hearty meal, ideal for a family dinner or to impress guests. This potato puree and chicken thighs soufflé is not only tasty but also easy to prepare. Moreover, it is an excellent choice to use the ingredients you already have in your pantry.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 5-6 large potatoes
- 4 green onions
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2-3 tablespoons grated cheese
- 2 eggs
- Flour (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Butter (for greasing the dish)
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Oregano (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

A brief history

The soufflé is a classic dish with deep roots in traditional cuisine, often associated with egg and cheese preparations. Over time, the soufflé has evolved, being adapted with various ingredients, including vegetables and meat. This recipe with potato puree and chicken thighs revives the tradition, bringing a light and creamy soufflé, perfect for any occasion.

Preparing the ingredients

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized pieces to cook uniformly. Place them in a pot with cold water and salt. Boil over medium heat until soft, about 15-20 minutes. Do not discard the water in which they boiled, as you will use it to adjust the consistency of the puree.

2. Preparing the chicken thighs: Wash the chicken thighs under cold water and let them drain. Then, season them with salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the thighs on both sides for 4-5 minutes each until golden. Remove them to a plate and set aside.

3. Cooking the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped green onions and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, adding 2-3 tablespoons of the potato boiling water to help them soften.

Preparing the puree

1. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and mash them in a large bowl using a whisk or potato masher. Add one egg, salt, and mix well. If the puree is too thick, gradually add the potato boiling water until you achieve a creamy consistency.

2. Incorporate the grated cheese and mix well. Finally, add the sautéed onion and pepper mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Assembling the soufflé

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

2. Start by placing a layer of potato puree in the dish, using half of the amount. Place the browned chicken thighs on top, then cover with the remaining potato puree.

3. Beat one egg with 1-2 tablespoons of flour and pour this mixture over the last layer of puree. This will help the soufflé develop a golden and appetizing crust.

Baking

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the surface becomes golden and slightly crispy. The aroma will fill the entire room and stimulate your appetite.

Serving

Remove the soufflé from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, possibly alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for added color and nutrients. You can pair it with a glass of dry white wine or fresh citrus juice, which will perfectly complement the flavors of this comforting dish.

Practical tips

- Types of potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like red potatoes or Yukon Gold for a creamy and smooth puree.
- Variations: You can add herbs like thyme or basil to the puree for an even more refined taste. You can also include goat cheese or cheddar cheese to vary the flavor.
- Storage: The soufflé can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Heat it in the oven before serving to restore its creamy consistency.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use grilled chicken? Yes, you can use leftover chicken from other dishes.
- Can I make the recipe vegetarian? Yes! Replace the chicken thighs with tofu or hearty mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe offers a balanced combination of protein from the meat and carbohydrates from the potatoes, making it a good source of energy. Potatoes are rich in vitamins C and B6, while cheese provides calcium and protein. It is a comforting meal, perfect for chilly days, but also to bring a touch of joy to every meal.

I hope you enjoy this potato puree and chicken thighs soufflé recipe, which combines tradition with innovation. I invite you to try it and share the result with your loved ones, as food is, after all, a wonderful way to create beautiful memories together! Enjoy your meal!