Savory Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Hash
Savory Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Hash is a quick dish ready in just 35 minutes. This easy recipe features chicken, potatoes, spinach, and bell peppers. Perfect for brunch!
Table of Contents
- about savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash
- master the art of savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash
- what makes this recipe special
- health & nutrition highlights
- recipe at a glance
- master ingredient list
- kitchen equipment essentials
- foolproof cooking steps
- success guaranteed tips
- perfect presentation
- storage & make - ahead
- creative variations
- expert faq solutions
- complete nutrition guide
- Recipe Card
about savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash
savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash has roots that stretch back to the heart of home cooking, where simple ingredients unite to create hearty meals, this dish emerges from a rich culinary tradition, often seen in various forms across different cultures, it embodies the essence of comfort food, particularly popular in households looking for a delicious yet quick breakfast option, the combination of chicken, fresh spinach, and crispy potatoes delivers not only flavor but also nutrition making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a balanced start to their day .
what sets this recipe apart is its versatility, you can whip it up with whatever veggies you have on hand. plus, it's ideal for meal prep : make a big batch on sunday, and you'll have breakfast ready for several days ahead, this hash isn't just about feeding your hunger; it's about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients while tantalizing your taste buds .
master the art of savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash
the history of breakfast hashes dates back centuries but gained popularity during wartime as a way to use leftover meats and vegetables creatively, the origins are fascinating adapting over time from ancient european dishes into modern - day breakfasts around the world, in fact, many cultures have their own spins on hash. from corned beef hash in irish kitchens to sweet potato variants in southern u .s ., there’s something universally appealing about mixing proteins with starchy goodness .
today’s savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash connects us culturally too bringing families together at the table every morning or brunching with friends on weekends. it represents a community spirit through shared plates filled with vibrant flavors that evoke warmth perfectly aligning with our busy lifestyles while still reminding us of traditional comforts .
what makes this recipe special
what truly makes this recipe stand out is its unique flavor combinations the tender chicken mingling beautifully with earthy spinach and crispy potatoes creates an explosion of tastes that dance over your palate. the addition of smoked paprika gives it depth you wouldn’t expect from such simple ingredients .
and if you're worried about technique ? fear not. this method is foolproof; even novice cooks will find success without any kitchen disasters (trust me i’ve had my fair share.), it's been expertly tested by home cooks everywhere who simply love how easy it is to prepare yet impressive enough for guests.
plus, i’ve picked up some time - saving tips along my journey : pre - cooking those potatoes slightly helps get everything onto your plate faster without sacrificing texture or taste.
health & nutrition highlights
this dish isn’t just satisfying it also packs nutritional benefits worth mentioning. with lean protein from chicken combined with nutrient - dense spinach (loaded with vitamins a & c), you’re starting off strong each morning, potatoes contribute carbohydrates needed for energy throughout the day while giving dietary fiber a win - win situation.
if you're watching calories or following specific diets like low - carb or gluten - free options ? you can easily adapt this recipe by swapping regular potatoes out for sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice instead not compromising on flavor one bit.
wellness - wise ? eating balanced meals promotes overall health and who doesn’t want more energy ? so dig into this savory delight knowing you're fueling yourself right.
balanced nutrition facts
- calories : ~350 kcal per serving
- protein : ~30g
- carbohydrates : ~40g
- dietary fiber : ~5g
recipe at a glance
ready to dive in ? here’s what you need before whipping up some savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash :
- total preparation time : 15 minutes
- cooking time : 20 minutes
- skill level required : easy (great for beginners.)
- serving size details : serves 4 generously
- cost efficiency : affordable ingredient list ensures you won’t break the bank while enjoying scrumptious meals
so roll up those sleeves because once you've made this delightful hash once it'll become part of your regular rotation as both an energizing breakfast choice and comforting dinner option too. who doesn't love versatile recipes like that ?
whether it's quiet mornings alone sipping coffee or bustling brunches filled laughter amongst family members you’ll cherish moments created around plates piled high full deliciousness paired alongside good company now that's what life should be all about.
master ingredient list
premium core ingredients
when whipping up a delicious savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference, here’s what you’ll need :
-
olive oil (2 tablespoons) : look for extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor, check the label for harvest date; fresher is better. store it in a dark place to prevent it from going rancid .
-
boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 pound) : choose organic or free - range chicken if possible it's often juicier and more flavorful, fresh chicken should be pink with no odor; store in the fridge and use within 1 - 2 days or freeze for later .
-
salt and pepper : go for kosher salt it’s easier to pinch and season evenly, freshly cracked black pepper adds a great kick.
-
onion (1 medium, diced) : a sweet onion works wonders here. select one that feels firm without soft spots, keep onions in a cool, dark place away from potatoes to extend their shelf life .
-
red bell pepper (1 medium, diced) : opt for vibrant red peppers that feel heavy for their size; they’re sweeter and tastier. store them in the fridge's crisper drawer wrapped lightly in plastic .
-
fresh spinach (2 cups, roughly chopped) : select bright green leaves without wilting or browning, if you buy pre - washed spinach, consume it quickly as it has a shorter shelf life than fresh .
-
potatoes (3 medium - sized, peeled & cubed) : yukon golds are my go - to because they hold their shape well while cooking, keep potatoes stored in a cool spot away from sunlight to prevent sprouting .
-
garlic (3 cloves, minced) : fresh garlic packs so much flavor. look for bulbs that feel firm with tight skin not too squishy. store unpeeled garlic in a cool dry place; once peeled, keep it covered in the fridge .
-
smoked paprika (1 teaspoon) : this spice adds depth with its smoky undertones, buy high - quality paprika labeled "smoked" rather than regular paprika it's worth it.
signature seasoning blend
this dish shines thanks to its signature seasoning blend that really elevates those core ingredients :
- cayenne pepper (optional pinch) : for some heat that wakes up your taste buds just know how spicy you like things.
adding spices is where creativity comes into play :
spice combinations
mix smoked paprika with cayenne pepper for smokiness plus heat a match made in heaven.
herb selections
chopped fresh parsley or cilantro not only garnishes but also brightens flavors beautifully when sprinkled on top just before serving.
flavor enhancers
consider adding lemon zest at the end of cooking it gives everything this zingy lift that's super refreshing.
aromatic additions
shallots could be an interesting swap instead of regular onions they bring sweetness without overpowering other flavors .
smart substitutions
sometimes we run out of ingredients or want healthier swaps :
alternative options
using turkey breast instead of chicken lightens things up while still giving you protein punch. you could even try tofu if you're feeling adventurous about going vegetarian.
dietary swaps
if gluten - free is your jam ? just ensure any spices used are certified gluten - free and double - check labels on anything packaged like broth if you're using any as well .
emergency replacements
out of fresh spinach ? no biggie kale works just fine here too; it's hearty enough not to wilt down too quickly during cooking.
seasonal variations
in summer months ? toss some cherry tomatoes into your hash right before serving they add color and sweetness that'll remind you of warm evenings outside .
kitchen equipment essentials
cooking can be fun but having proper tools makes everything smoother :
must - have tools
a large skillet is essential here you'll want something non - stick preferably since we're trying to get those crispy edges on our hash without sticking problems later on when flipping everything around .
recommended appliances
if you've got an air fryer lying around ? that could work wonders too by getting potato cubes perfectly crispy while cutting down oil usage overall.
helpful gadgets
investing in good kitchen knives will save time chopping veggies it makes prep fast so dinner can come together quicker after long days .
home alternatives
don't have fancy gadgets ? no worries a basic spatula does wonders when stirring things around..
pro ingredient tips
okay friends let’s spill some secrets about selecting those premium core items i mentioned earlier :
selection secrets : look out specifically at colors for instance darker greens mean more nutrients.
quality markers : when buying meat check expiration dates carefully; freshness means better taste which translates directly into yumminess .
storage solutions : always store herbs upright like flowers in water inside your fridge helps prolong freshness longer than leaving them loose inside drawers.
money - saving tips : frozen vegetables are often cheaper than fresh ones yet still packed full nutrients perfect especially popular among busy folks who can't always shop weekly i’m looking at you grocery day procrastinators..
and there you have it the ultimate ingredient guide that'll help make preparing this savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash smooth sailing every time.. enjoy experimenting with flavors as each batch will surely become uniquely yours over time happy cooking everyone..
foolproof cooking steps
essential preparation steps
before diving into cooking, let’s get everything ready, this is where mise en place comes in it's a fancy french term that basically means “everything in its place .” so, gather all your ingredients and tools first. for the savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash, you’ll need diced chicken breast, cubed potatoes, chopped onion and red bell pepper, minced garlic, smoked paprika, spinach (or kale), and olive oil .
prep techniques : start by washing your vegetables, peel and cube your potatoes into even sizes for uniform cooking, dicing the onions and bell peppers should be done with a sharp knife to make it easier and safer, mince the garlic finely to release those delicious flavors more effectively .
time management : allocate about 15 minutes for prep work, washing veggies takes time; don’t rush this part. once everything's prepped potatoes boiled for about 5 - 7 minutes you're ready to start cooking .
organization tips : keep your workspace tidy as you go along, use different bowls for each ingredient or group them based on when they’ll be added to the skillet, this will save you from frantically searching while something’s burning.
professional cooking method
now onto the actual cooking. heat a large skillet over medium - high heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until it's hot but not smoking .
step - by - step process :
1, cook the chicken : season the diced chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet, cook for about 5 - 7 minutes until it turns golden brown inside (165°f/74°c), remove it from the pan .
1, sauté vegetables : in that same skillet (keeping those tasty drippings.), toss in diced onion and red bell pepper first; sauté them until they soften up nicely around 4 - 5 minutes works well here .
1, add garlic & spices : toss in minced garlic next along with smoked paprika and cayenne if you're feeling adventurous. cook this mixture until fragrant a minute or so does wonders.
1, combine ingredients : now fold back in your partially cooked potatoes along with fresh spinach/kale stir gently so as not to break up those potato cubes too much.
temperature control & timing precision : make sure not to overcrowd the pan; let things breathe a bit so they can brown properly instead of steaming away their flavor .
expert techniques
here are some professional methods that elevate this dish :
critical steps :
-
when flattening out hash slightly within the pan during cooking, resist stirring too often. letting it sit undisturbed helps develop crispy bits on one side .
-
don’t forget it takes around five minutes of undisturbed sizzling before flipping or stirring again should happen two more times till you achieve desired crispiness .
precision points & quality checks : keep an eye on texture rather than strict timing; you'll want crispy edges without burning anything blackened.
when reintroducing cooked chicken at step eight, just give it enough time to warm through not too long or else it'll dry out.
success strategies
sometimes things go awry that’s okay. here are troubleshooting tips :
if your hash looks dry during its final moments of cooking you might have cranked up heat too much earlier on just add a splash of water or broth back into that mix if needed .
for quality assurance : always taste while you cook to adjust seasoning according to preference right there at any stage before serving.
to ensure perfect results every time : remember what makes great food is simplicity paired alongside patience the best secret sauce is often just letting flavors mingle together seamlessly without rushing through steps haphazardly .
finally don’t skimp on garnishes like fresh herbs sprinkled generously atop everything once plated…they add color and brightness which makes every bite feel gourmet even if we’re talking breakfast here.
that’s all there is folks a delightful savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash awaits thanks to these foolproof steps leading straight towards satisfying success on busy mornings ahead. enjoy every last bite..
success guaranteed tips
professional insights
when it comes to whipping up a delicious chicken for breakfast, preparation is key. make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, you don’t want to be running around the kitchen looking for that last potato while your hash is cooking, trust me, i’ve been there and it’s not pretty.
expert techniques
cooking the chicken until it's golden brown adds flavor and texture, use a meat thermometer if you're unsure; this takes away the guesswork. the internal temperature should hit 165°f (74°c) for safety and perfection .
kitchen wisdom
don’t overcrowd your skillet. giving each ingredient room allows them to crisp up beautifully instead of steaming together in their own juices, this little trick makes a world of difference in achieving that crunchy, mouthwatering finish .
success guarantees
if you follow these tips, i guarantee you'll impress at breakfast time. don’t forget : practice makes perfect, your first attempt may not look like instagram - worthy food art, but that’s okay just enjoy every bite.
perfect presentation
plating techniques
to make your savory chicken and spinach breakfast hash pop on the plate, try using a ring mold when serving, this can create height and structure making everything look more gourmet without much effort.
garnish ideas
fresh herbs are your best friend here. a sprinkle of parsley or cilantro on top not only adds color but also enhances flavor, plus, who doesn’t love an herbaceous kick ?
serving suggestions
this dish pairs wonderfully with eggs on top so why not serve it as a brunch centerpiece ? add some crispy bacon or sausage on the side for those extra hungry friends .
visual appeal tips
a colorful plate is always more appetizing. the vivid reds from bell peppers combined with bright greens from spinach creates such an inviting dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds .
storage & make - ahead
storage guidelines
store leftover hash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, just make sure it cools down before sealing it tight; we don’t want any soggy messes.
preservation methods
you can also freeze portions of this dish if you want something quick later on, just remember to separate into single servings so reheating is easy peasy.
reheating instructions
for best results when reheating leftovers, toss them back into a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, a splash of olive oil helps bring back some crunchiness too.
freshness tips
make sure to consume leftovers quickly since fresh veggies lose their appeal after a couple of days not to mention taste.
creative variations
flavor adaptations
feeling adventurous ? try swapping out smoked paprika with chili powder or adding diced tomatoes for extra moisture and flavor depth .
dietary modifications
for those watching their carbs, consider substituting potatoes with cauliflower rice it gives you the same satisfying texture without all those carbs .
seasonal twists
in winter months ? incorporate roasted brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes instead they’re hearty choices perfect for chilly mornings .
regional variations
why not take inspiration from different cuisines ? add chorizo sausage for a spanish twist or include feta cheese plus olives inspired by mediterranean flavors .
expert faq solutions
common concerns
“what do i do if my potatoes are mushy ?” no worries. using firmer varieties like yukon gold can help prevent this issue next time around .
expert answers
can i use frozen spinach instead of fresh ? absolutely; just be aware frozen spinach has more water content so squeeze out excess moisture before adding it in .
troubleshooting guide
if things aren’t browning as they should . ., crank up that heat slightly you want sizzle action happening in there.
success tips
always taste as you go along that way you can adjust seasoning according to personal preference throughout cooking time.
complete nutrition guide
detailed breakdown
each serving packs about 350 calories which isn’t bad considering how filling this meal is with high protein content coming from our beloved chicken breast. .
health benefits
spinach provides tons vitamins while keeping things light yet nutritious it’s basically the superfood combo we all need early morning energy boosts. .
dietary information
this recipe can easily cater towards gluten - free diets by ensuring no cross - contamination occurs during prepping stages too gotta keep everyone happy at brunch. .
portion guidance
consider one generous scoop per person alongside eggs/fresh fruits a balanced meal without feeling overly stuffed afterward. .
⚖️ Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into small pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale), roughly chopped
- 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
🥄 Instructions:
- Step 1: In a large pot of salted water, bring the cubed potatoes to a boil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are just fork-tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, season the diced chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least165°F/74°C). Remove from pan and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet used for chicken (keeping any drippings in), add more olive oil if needed. Add onions and bell peppers; sauté on medium heat until softened—about 4-5 minutes.
- Step 4: Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 5: Add partially cooked potatoes back into the skillet along with spinach/kale; stir everything together gently so that vegetables mix well without breaking up too much of your potato cubes.
- Step 6: Flatten out hash slightly in the pan so that it gets crispy on one side; allow it to cook undisturbed for about another five minutes before stirring again—repeat this process two more times or until you reach your desired level of crispiness.
- Step 7: Fold back in cooked chicken into hash mixture just long enough to reheat then remove from heat immediately.
- Step 8: For an added touch serve with fried or poached eggs on top! Garnish with freshly chopped herbs before serving!
Previous Recipe: Quick Bibimbap: Flavorful Korean Breakfast
Next Recipe: Bake Savory Egg Sausage Breakfast Bites