Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus

Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus

Introduction:

This Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus is the perfect comfort meal that is both flavorful and satisfying. The chicken is baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy crust, while the creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth, buttery base. The roasted asparagus adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich and cheesy chicken. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this meal is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to become a new favorite. The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and roasted veggies makes for a wholesome, balanced dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup milk (or more for creamier potatoes)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

For the Asparagus:

• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and rub them with olive oil. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each chicken breast, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.

2. Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and the cheese is melted and golden brown. For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking process, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.

3. Make the Mashed Potatoes: While the chicken is baking, peel and chop the potatoes into small chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 12-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

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4. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and sour cream (if using). Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if necessary to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Prepare the Asparagus: While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the asparagus. Trim the woody ends and place the asparagus on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Toss to coat and arrange the asparagus in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy at the tips.

6. Assemble the Plate: Once everything is cooked, plate the cheesy baked chicken alongside the creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. You can garnish the asparagus with a little extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy: This hearty and flavorful meal is ready to serve! Enjoy the cheesy, tender chicken with the creamy mashed potatoes and the vibrant, crisp asparagus for a wholesome dinner that will delight your taste buds.

Conclusion: This Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus is the ultimate comfort meal that combines a cheesy, savory main dish with creamy, buttery potatoes and fresh vegetables. The dish is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for family meals or entertaining guests. The baked chicken is packed with flavor from the cheese and seasonings, while the mashed potatoes provide a smooth base to complement the dish. The roasted asparagus adds a nice touch of freshness and texture. This meal is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, sure to satisfy any appetite. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this easy-to-make dinner!