Why Make This High-Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken & Potatoes
High-Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken & Potatoes is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and crispy potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe stands out not only for its comforting flavors but also for its impressive nutritional profile. Packed with protein, it offers a filling meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of garlic, cheese, and herbs creates an aroma that will leave your kitchen smelling divine, and the textures—from the tender chicken to the crispy potatoes—make every bite enjoyable.
How to Make High-Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken & Potatoes
Making this dish is simpler than you might think. Start by preparing a few key ingredients, and then follow the steps below to bring it all together. As you cook, you’ll enjoy the fragrant smell of garlic and herbs wafting through your home, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.75 lbs chicken breast (cubed (800g))
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons mixed herbs
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1.75 lbs potatoes (cubed (800g))
- 1 teaspoon salt (for potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mixed herbs (for potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (for potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for potatoes)
- 0.5 cup milk (any type (120ml))
- 3.5 oz light cream cheese (Philadelphia Lightest (100g))
- 1.4 oz grated Parmesan cheese (40g)
- 1.75 oz shredded mozzarella (or low-fat cheese (50g))
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, toss together the cubed chicken breast, minced garlic, onion powder, mixed herbs, chili flakes, paprika, salt, and olive oil until every piece of chicken is evenly coated.
- Heat a large deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the potatoes. In a separate bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with salt, garlic powder, mixed herbs, chili flakes, and paprika. You can use cooking spray if desired to coat the potatoes lightly.
- Cook the potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 18-20 minutes or in the oven at the same temperature for 20-23 minutes until they turn crispy and golden brown.
- Lower the heat on the chicken pan. Add the milk and light cream cheese, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until they melt and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with additional salt, garlic, or mixed herbs to taste, if desired.
- Gently fold in the crispy potatoes to ensure they are well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Cover the pan for 4-5 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to fully integrate.
- Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the rich flavors and delightful textures.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 460
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 40g
How to Serve High-Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken & Potatoes
This dish is perfect for a hearty dinner. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the creamy sauce. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. This recipe is ideal for family meals or entertaining guests, and it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
How to Store High-Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken & Potatoes
If you have leftovers (which is quite rare with this dish!), simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or a stovetop on low heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of milk to bring it back to a creamy consistency.
Expert Tips for Perfect High-Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken & Potatoes
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices and olive oil for at least an hour before cooking.
- If you’re short on time, you can opt for pre-cubed chicken and ready-cut frozen potatoes.
- Consider using a different cheese like cheddar for a unique flavor twist.
- Don’t rush the melting process; keep the heat low so the sauce stays creamy without separating.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option that’s still high in protein.
- Herb Extra: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the chili flakes or add sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy heat.
- Different Cheese: Feel free to mix cheeses—try a blend of cheddar and gouda for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep the chicken and potato mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and assemble it just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
3. What sides pair well with this dish?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread makes excellent sides that complement the rich flavors of the chicken and potatoes.
Conclusion
High-Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken & Potatoes is not just a delicious meal; it also offers a great protein boost in a satisfying package. The creamy sauce combined with the crispy potatoes and tender chicken creates a feast for the senses, making it a must-try recipe. Give it a go and enjoy the delightful flavors with your friends and family. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations—happy cooking!
High-Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken & Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, toss together the cubed chicken breast, minced garlic, onion powder, mixed herbs, chili flakes, paprika, salt, and olive oil until every piece of chicken is evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with salt, garlic powder, mixed herbs, chili flakes, and paprika.
- Heat a large deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cook the potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 18-20 minutes or in the oven at the same temperature for 20-23 minutes until they turn crispy and golden brown.
- Lower the heat on the chicken pan. Add the milk and light cream cheese, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until they melt and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with additional salt, garlic, or mixed herbs to taste, if desired.
- Gently fold in the crispy potatoes to ensure they are well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Cover the pan for 4-5 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to fully integrate.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the rich flavors and delightful textures.