Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary! This Chicken Spago with Artichoke Mash is not just a recipe, it's a culinary experience that combines the rich, creamy texture of artichoke-infused mashed potatoes with perfectly seared, juicy chicken breasts. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal, this dish promises to tantalize your taste buds and make you feel like a professional chef in your very own kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 can artichoke hearts, drained
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 can of artichoke hearts (drained), 2 cups of mashed potatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds a nice crust to the chicken.
- Once the chicken is browned, remove the skillet from the heat. If using an oven-safe skillet, you can proceed to the next step. If not, transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the drained artichoke hearts and the mashed potatoes. Mix well until the artichokes are evenly distributed throughout the mash. You can use a fork or potato masher for this step.
- Spread the artichoke mash evenly over the top of the seared chicken breasts in the skillet or baking dish.
- Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet or baking dish from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- To serve, plate the chicken breasts topped with the artichoke mash. You can garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Enjoy your Chicken Spago with Artichoke Mash!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the perfect 165°F internal temperature - this guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time.
- Searing Secrets: Pat your chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to achieve that gorgeous golden-brown crust. Moisture prevents proper browning.
- Artichoke Mash Hack: For extra flavor, consider roasting the artichoke hearts briefly before mixing them into the mashed potatoes to enhance their nutty, complex taste.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the artichoke mash and season the chicken up to a day in advance, making dinner prep a breeze.
- Garnish Game: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a pop of color and freshness to your final presentation.
- Even Cooking: Choose chicken breasts that are similar in size to ensure uniform cooking time and prevent some pieces from drying out.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 100mg
