Chicken and Potato Balls with Cheddar Cheese

Chicken and Potato Balls with Cheddar Cheese
These chicken and potato balls with cheddar cheese are a delicious and visually appealing main dish that combines the hearty flavors of mashed potatoes, tender chicken, and savory spices. The chicken mixture, seasoned with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, forms a perfect outer layer around the mashed potato balls. Baked to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese, these meat and potato balls are crispy on the outside and soft and flavorful on the inside. This dish is a great option for dinner and will impress your guests with its unique presentation and comforting flavors.

Preparation Time

Total preparation and cooking time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

4 potatoes
Water (enough to cover potatoes)
Additional salt, pepper, and mint for potatoes
50 grams grated cheddar cheese
For the Chicken Mixture:

3 pieces of chicken breast (900 grams)
1 onion
1 pinch of parsley
1 green pepper
1 red pepper
3 cloves of garlic
Spices and salt to taste:
Pepper powder
Black pepper
Cumin
Mint
Salt
1 tablespoon olive oil (10 ml)
For Baking:

1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 glass of water (200 ml)
50 grams grated cheddar cheese (for topping)
Directions
Prepare the Potatoes:

Chop the potatoes into large pieces.
Place the potatoes in a pot and pour enough water to cover them.
Cook the potatoes until soft, then remove them from the water and mash them.
Add grated cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and mint to the mashed potatoes and mix well.
Form the mashed potatoes into 8 balls (or more, depending on the size of your tray).
Prepare the Chicken Mixture:

Coarsely chop the chicken breasts.
In a food processor, blend the chicken until it reaches a dough-like consistency.
Chop the onion, parsley, green pepper, red pepper, and garlic finely, or process them in the food processor.
Add the chopped vegetables to the ground chicken.
Season with pepper powder, black pepper, cumin, mint, and salt to taste.
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and mix everything well.
Form the chicken mixture into 8 balls.
Refrigerate the chicken balls for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
Assemble the Meat and Potato Balls:

Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).
Lightly oil a freezer bag.
Place a chicken ball inside the bag, then press and expand it into a flat patty.
Place a potato ball in the center of the flattened chicken mixture and shape it around the potato ball. You can use a small bowl for better shaping if desired.
Cook the Meat and Potato Balls:

Place the formed meat and potato balls on a baking tray.
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of tomato paste with 1 glass of water. Pour this mixture over the meat and potato balls.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the meat and potato balls are golden brown.
Finish the Dish:

After 45 minutes, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese generously over each ball.
Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:

Remove the meat and potato balls from the oven and serve hot.
Enjoy this delicious and visually appealing dish with your favorite sides!
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of fresh salad for a light and refreshing contrast to the hearty meat and potatoes.
Pair with roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for added flavor and nutrition.
Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Cooking Tips

Ensure the potato balls are mashed thoroughly to avoid lumps, which can make shaping the potato balls difficult.
If the chicken mixture is too sticky to form into balls, add a small amount of breadcrumbs or rice flour to help bind the mixture.
Let the chicken balls chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape better while baking.
Nutritional Benefits

Potatoes: A good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins like vitamin C and potassium, potatoes help support heart health and provide sustained energy.
Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken supports muscle growth and is a great source of essential vitamins and minerals.
Cheddar Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle maintenance.
Vegetables: The onions, peppers, and parsley contribute fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, supporting overall health and digestion.
Dietary Information

This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
The recipe contains dairy due to the cheese. To make it dairy-free, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Storage

Leftover meat and potato balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
They can also be frozen after baking for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving for best results.
Conclusion

These chicken and potato balls with cheddar cheese are a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With tender chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and a delicious melted cheese topping, they are sure to become a family favorite. This hearty dish is easy to prepare and makes a satisfying main course that will impress your guests.

5 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes, you can use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to chicken. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I make these balls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meat and potato balls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I add more vegetables to the chicken mixture? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I bake these meat and potato balls in a casserole dish instead of a baking tray? Yes, you can bake them in a casserole dish. Just make sure the sauce is evenly distributed, and check for doneness after baking.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese? You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a different flavor profile.