PREHEAT oven to 425°F. Rinse potatoes; drain on paper towels, then pat dry.
BRUSH 1 Tbsp. of the butter onto bottom and side of 9-in. pie plate. Toss potatoes with combined remaining 2 Tbsp. butter and 1/4 cup of the cheese; arrange potato slices, in several layers, on bottom and up side of pie plate. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese.
BAKE 1 hour or until potatoes are tender. Loosen potatoes from side and bottom of pie plate. Invert immediately onto serving plate; sprinkle with chives. Cut into 8 wedges to serve.