Are you on the hunt for a meal prep recipe that doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds but also checks off all your nutritional boxes? Look no further than our Loaded Barbecue Chicken Potatoes! This delectable dish promises to impart unparalleled flavor with minimal effort, making it a staple for any meal prep enthusiast. Each portion packs an impressive 680 calories and 59 grams of protein, while still boasting high fiber and low fat content. In this blog, we’ll explore how to craft this perfect blend of tender chicken and savory potatoes, infused with the irresistible tang of barbecue sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, you’ll find the step-by-step instructions a breeze to follow. Get ready to dive into a meal that’s not only delicious but also nutrition-packed and ideal for storage and reheating—perfect for those busy weekdays!
The Potato Base
The journey to crafting these extraordinary loaded potatoes begins with our star ingredient—potatoes. Using about 900 grams or 1.9 pounds of any all-rounder potato, you’ll start by giving them a good wash. Importantly, there’s no need to peel them; keeping the skin on retains vital nutrients. Chop them into bite-sized pieces, keeping in mind that smaller pieces cook faster.
Seasoning is key to bringing out the potatoes’ natural flavors. In a bowl, combine the chopped potatoes with a teaspoon each of onion and garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Add 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Thoroughly mix so that each potato piece is well-coated.
While you can easily prepare these in an oven, an air fryer offers a quick and efficient alternative. Set it to 200 degrees Celsius and let them cook for approximately 22 minutes, adjusting for desired crispiness.
Tender Barbecue Chicken
The protein backbone of this meal is the succulent chicken, utilizing another 900 grams or 1.9 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cut into thin, even strips before dicing them into uniform bite-sized pieces; this consistency is key to ensuring even cooking.
Mix the chicken pieces in a bowl with freshly grated garlic from six peeled cloves, and incorporate the same seasonings as the potatoes, minus the garlic powder. Each morsel should be well-coated for maximum flavor.
Preheat a large pan over medium-high heat and add an additional 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, spread out the chicken pieces in the pan, allowing them to sear and develop a flavorful crust for about a minute to a minute and a half. Cook thoroughly for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is just done.
To kick up the savory profile, introduce half a cup of your favorite barbecue sauce. Stir until the chicken is evenly glazed.
Bringing It All Together
When the potatoes are golden and crispy, they’re ready to join the chicken. Mix them together in the pan, ensuring that the potatoes are enveloped in the barbecue glaze. Reduce the heat to low for the finishing touches.
Grated mozzarella cheese, about 150 grams, is then scattered generously over the top—reserving a bit for garnishing. Cover the pan and allow the cheese to melt into a gooey, delicious layer. Depending on your taste, sprinkle more cracked black pepper on top.
Serving and Storage
Divide the dish into five servings, each weighing approximately 400 grams or 14 ounces, for efficient meal prepping. For those who relish a hint of freshness, garnish with additional mozzarella and a sprinkle of flat-leaf parsley right before serving.
This meal isn’t just delectable fresh; it’s equally delightful reheated. Allow the portions to cool for about 15 to 20 minutes before refrigerating for up to four days or freezing for up to three months. To reheat, a microwave often works best to maintain moisture and texture, but a pan or oven will suffice with a bit of added barbecue sauce and cheese, just bear in mind the macro adjustments.
The Flavor and Nutritional Payoff
Every serving of this dish boasts 680 calories and packs a punch with 59 grams of protein—making it an incredible option for those conscious of their nutritional intake. Not only is it high in protein, but it’s also fiber-rich and low in fat, making it a balanced meal choice.
The magic of this meal lies in its simplicity and how it delivers on both flavor and nutrition. Whether devoured as a freshly made meal or savored later from the freezer, the Loaded Barbecue Chicken Potatoes dish embodies the perfect meal prep strategy. Embrace the excitement of this culinary creation and enjoy its rich, smoky, and savory flavors that are sure to become a regular on your meal rotation!
Whip up this easy and nutritious meal prep with our Loaded Barbecue Chicken Potatoes recipe. Packed with flavor, protein-rich, and low in fat.
