One-Pan Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

• Grease the Baking Dish: Start by taking a baking dish of your choice (around 9x9 inches works well). Add 1 tablespoon of butter (or olive oil) to the dish. Use a brush or a paper towel to spread the butter evenly across the entire surface. This will prevent sticking and create a crispy, golden crust.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

• Slice the Potatoes: Take 2 medium-sized potatoes and scrub them clean. Peel the potatoes if desired, or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients. Slice the potatoes thinly into 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch rounds. This thickness ensures they cook evenly without becoming too mushy or too crunchy.

Step 3: Assemble Onions and Potatoes

• Layer the Potatoes and Onions: Place the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Slice the white onion thinly and scatter the slices over the potatoes. Season with salt and black pepper (to taste). Make sure the salt and pepper are evenly distributed. Arrange the potatoes and onions neatly so the layers cook uniformly.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the Chicken: Take 1 chicken breast and remove any fat or skin. Cut the chicken into small 1-inch cubes or bite-sized pieces. This allows the chicken to cook quickly and evenly.

• Season the Chicken: In a separate bowl, add the cubed chicken along with ¼ tsp paprika, salt, and pepper (to taste). Mix the chicken and seasoning together thoroughly, ensuring that every piece is evenly coated with the spices.

Step 5: Assemble Chicken

• Add the Chicken to the Baking Dish: Layer the seasoned chicken pieces over the potatoes and onions in the baking dish. Try to distribute the chicken evenly so it cooks well with the vegetables.

Step 6: Prepare the Egg Mixture

• Make the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, crack 2 eggs and add 1 cup of milk. Whisk together until smooth. Then, add ¼ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper to taste. Whisk again to incorporate the seasoning into the mixture. This mixture will bind all the ingredients and add a creamy texture.

Step 7: Pour the Egg Mixture

• Pour the Mixture: Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the chicken, potatoes, and onions in the baking dish. Make sure all the ingredients are covered by the mixture. This helps everything bind together while cooking and keeps the dish moist.

Step 8: Bake Covered

• Cover the Dish: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps steam and ensures the potatoes, chicken, and onions cook through without drying out. Place the dish in the oven preheated to 180°C (350°F).
• Bake for 60 minutes: Bake the covered dish for about 60 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will cook through, and the chicken will become tender.

Step 9: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

• Uncover and Add Toppings: After 60 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil. You should see the dish cooked through, with the potatoes soft and the chicken tender. Now, sprinkle Mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the dish. If you’re using tomatoes, slice 2 tomatoes and place the slices on top of the cheese. The tomatoes add a fresh, juicy element that pairs well with the richness of the cheese.

• Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F). The cheese should melt and become golden brown, while the tomatoes will soften slightly.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

• Finish and Garnish: Once the dish is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves (optional) to add a burst of color and flavor. Serve the dish hot, ensuring you have a bit of chicken, potatoes, onions, and cheese in every bite.

Extra Tips:

• Texture Tip: If you prefer a crispy top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking to get the cheese extra golden.
• Vegetable Variation: You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots if desired. Just slice them thinly and layer them with the potatoes.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day ahead. Simply assemble everything up until Step 7, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake as directed, increasing the baking time slightly if chilled.

Enjoy your comforting One-Pan Chicken and Potatoes dish, perfect for any day of the week!