Chicken Philly Stuffed Potatoes combine the best of both worlds: the comforting nature of baked potatoes and the flavorful filling of a classic Philly cheesesteak. This dish is perfect for a hearty dinner, offering a satisfying blend of tender chicken, melted cheese, and perfectly seasoned vegetables. Whether for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat, these stuffed potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 green pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups pre-cooked frozen grilled chicken, diced
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
For the Potatoes:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the baking potatoes. Poke several holes in each potato with a fork.
- Bake the Potatoes:
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
For the Filling:
- Sauté Vegetables:
- While the potatoes are baking, heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and green pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Chicken:
- Add the diced pre-cooked chicken to the skillet along with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Season:
- Season the chicken and vegetable mixture with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika to taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed, stirring to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Assembly:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently push the ends to open them up.
- Stuff the Potatoes:
- Fluff the inside of each potato with a fork. Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into each potato, filling them generously.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed potato. Place the potatoes back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven and serve immediately. Top with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack.
- Vegetables: You can add more vegetables to the filling like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken, this can be a great way to use it up instead of frozen pre-cooked chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of baking potatoes? A: Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious and nutritious alternative. Just follow the same baking instructions.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake the potatoes and stuff them with the pre-made filling, then top with cheese and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use raw chicken instead of pre-cooked? A: Yes, if using raw chicken, cut it into small pieces and cook thoroughly in the skillet before adding the vegetables. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before stuffing the potatoes.
Chicken Philly Stuffed Potatoes are a hearty and flavorful meal that combines the best elements of a Philly cheesesteak with the comforting nature of a baked potato. This recipe is versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, these stuffed potatoes are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the satisfying combination of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and melted cheese in every bite!
