Roasted Potato and Chicken Casserole

This delightful dish combines the rustic charm of potatoes and the rich flavors of chicken, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. By layering juicy chicken thighs and ground meat with seasoned potatoes, you achieve a harmony of flavors and textures. The use of tomato sauce adds a tangy richness, while mayonnaise brings a creamy touch to the dish. Garlic and universal spices enhance the dish with aromas that will fill your kitchen with warmth. This casserole is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for hearty family dinners. Baking brings out the best in the ingredients, giving a satisfying crisp to the potatoes while keeping the chicken moist and tender. The casserole brings together the fresh flavors of the garden and the hearty notes of the farm. It's a versatile dish; whether you serve it for a family gathering or a solo dinner, you'll find comfort in every bite. Pair it with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg potatoes
• 6 chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 500 g ground meat
• 1/2 jar tomato sauce
• 250 g mayonnaise

Spices and Seasoning

• 4 cloves garlic
• Universal seasoning
• Ground black pepper
• Butter or oil

Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Start by lightly greasing a baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds. Spread a layer evenly across the bottom of the dish.
3. Season the Potatoes: Sprinkle a generous amount of universal seasoning and ground black pepper over the potato layer.
4. Add Ground Meat: Evenly distribute the ground meat over the seasoned potatoes.
5. Layer More Potatoes: Add another layer of sliced potatoes on top of the ground meat, and season again with spices and pepper.
6. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the tomato sauce and mayonnaise to create a creamy sauce.
7. Pour Over Potatoes: Drizzle half of the prepared sauce over the layered ingredients.
8. Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or drumsticks on top, ensuring they cover the layers beneath.
9. Form Meat Patties: Use any remaining ground meat to form small patties and arrange them around the chicken.
10. Slice the Garlic: Thinly slice the garlic cloves and sprinkle evenly over the entire dish. This will add a wonderful aroma.
11. Add Remaining Sauce: Pour the remaining tomato-mayonnaise sauce over the chicken, ensuring everything is well covered.
12. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 150°C (300°F).
13. Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
14. Check for Doneness: Use a fork to test the tenderness of the potatoes and the readiness of the chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
15. Broil for Crispiness: For a golden finish, you may broil the top for an additional 5 minutes.
16. Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving so the flavors meld and it's easier to serve.
17. Taste and Adjust: Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning as necessary with a touch more salt or pepper.
18. Enjoy: Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives if desired.

Tips

• Substitutions: Swap the chicken for turkey or use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones for a twist.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
• Time-Saver: To save time, slice the potatoes using a mandoline.

Nutritions (per serving)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 35 g
• Fats: 30 g
• Carbs: 45 g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken and meat with chunks of tofu or seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the seasonings used are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle with grated cheese before serving for melted, cheesy goodness.

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