Learn to cook chicken breast the Italian way with this delectable recipe taught to me by an Italian family. This dish features layers of potatoes, onions, and chicken breast, topped with a creamy egg mixture and a generous amount of cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 300g (11 oz), peeled and sliced
- Onions: 2, peeled and sliced
- Chicken Breast: 1 whole
- Eggs: 4
- Sour Cream: 100g (3.5 oz)
- Cheese: 100g (3.5 oz), grated
- Tomato: 1, sliced
- Parmesan Cheese: 100g (3.5 oz), grated
- Salt: 8g (0.2 oz), divided
- Black Pepper: 8g (0.2 oz), divided
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Prepare Ingredients
- Layer the sliced potatoes and onions in a baking dish.
- Season each layer with half of the salt and black pepper.
3. Prepare Chicken
- Season the chicken breast with the remaining salt and pepper.
- Place it on top of the onion layer.
4. Mix Eggs and Cream
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until well combined.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken and the layered vegetables in the baking dish.
5. Add Cheese
- Sprinkle the grated cheese and Parmesan evenly over the top.
6. Top with Tomato
- Place the sliced tomato on the top center of the mixture.
7. Bake
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
8. Serving
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm, ideally with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Slices: Ensure the potatoes and onions are sliced uniformly for even cooking.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
- Resting Time: Let the bake rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to help the juices redistribute and the layers set, making it easier to slice.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe provides a balanced meal with protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and a good dose of dairy from the cheese and sour cream. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat sour cream? A: Yes, you can substitute full-fat sour cream with a low-fat version to reduce the calorie count.
Q: What other vegetables can I add? A: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for additional flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Italian-inspired chicken breast bake offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a new way to cook chicken breast, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and authenticity. Enjoy the taste of Italy right at your dinner table!
Read Also: Creamy Chicken Pasta: An Irresistible Comfort Food Recipe