intro
As the sun set, it lit up the kitchen with a warm glow. The smell of baked chicken and creamy sauce filled the air. It reminded me of my grandmother’s cooking. Tonight, I was making a baked chicken breast with cream of chicken soup with a modern twist.
This dish is great for busy weeknights. It’s a hearty, home-cooked meal that’s easy to make. The creamy chicken bake has tender chicken in a rich, savory sauce. It’s a family favorite that even the pickiest eaters will love.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Effortless baked chicken breast recipe with cream of chicken soup
- Tender, juicy chicken in a creamy, comforting sauce
- Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep time
- Versatile dish that can be customized to your tastes
- Satisfying and family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a new favorite
Understanding the Perfect Creamy Chicken Bake
The creamy chicken bake is a standout in chicken casserole recipes. It combines juicy chicken breasts with creamy soups and sour cream. You can also add mushrooms for extra flavor. This makes a hearty, easy meal that’s ready in about an hour.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This recipe is special because it’s simple and flexible. It only needs a few ingredients, making it easy to make. You can also change it up to fit your taste, using homemade or canned soups.
Benefits of Using Cream of Chicken Soup
- Adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish
- Enhances the overall flavor profile
- Provides a convenient way to create a comfort food classic
- Helps to bind the ingredients together for a cohesive, delicious one-pot meal
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it makes the chicken juicy and tender. The long baking time ensures the chicken is cooked well. The creamy sauce keeps the meat moist and tasty. Adding mushrooms brings a savory, earthy flavor to the dish.
“This creamy chicken bake is a true comfort food classic that’s easy to prepare and delivers consistently delicious results.”
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken Casserole
Making a tasty and affordable chicken casserole is easy. You just need the right ingredients. Whether you’re experienced in cooking or new to it, the key parts for a creamy chicken bake are simple. Let’s explore the main elements that make this chicken breast recipe special.
First, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These lean meats are the heart of the dish, offering a tender and flavorful base. Next, you’ll need two cans of condensed cream of chicken soup. This will make a rich and creamy sauce.
To add creaminess and a bit of tang, sour cream is essential. For extra flavor, consider adding mushrooms and a sprinkle of onion powder, chopped chives, paprika, salt, and pepper.
If you want to make your own condensed cream soups, you can. This lets you choose the ingredients and flavors you like best.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 pounds |
| Condensed cream of chicken soup | 2 cans (10.75 ounces each) |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Stove Top Chicken Stuffing mix | 2 boxes (6 ounces each) |
| Chicken broth | 1 1/2 cups |
With these key ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious and budget-friendly chicken casserole. Your whole family will love it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Baked Chicken Breast with Cream of Chicken Soup
Get ready for a tasty family-friendly recipe – Baked Chicken Breast with Cream of Chicken Soup! It’s easy to make and loved by all. Follow these steps to make this delicious meal.
Preparing the Chicken
First, heat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer. Each breast weighs 7-8 ounces, so you’ll need 1 to 4 for your meal.
Making the Cream Sauce
Next, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, mushrooms, chives, and water in a bowl. This sauce will make your chicken extra tasty and creamy.
Baking Instructions
Spread the creamy sauce over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle paprika on top for flavor and color. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is 165-170°F inside. You want it tender and juicy.
After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This makes it even juicier. Serve it to your family and enjoy the creamy sauce’s comforting taste!
Tips for Achieving Tender, Juicy Chicken
When making chicken breast recipes and creamy chicken bakes, the goal is tender, juicy chicken. Don’t use pre-cooked chicken, as it can dry out. Cook the chicken with the other ingredients to keep it moist and tasty.
To check if the chicken is done, look at the internal temperature. Chicken breasts need to be at least 165°F (74°C) to be safe. Baking at 425°F (220°C) usually takes 20-25 minutes for boneless, skinless breasts. Bone-in, skin-on breasts take 30-40 minutes.
After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices spread evenly, making the chicken tender and juicy. For extra flavor, brine or marinate the chicken breasts for 2 hours or overnight before baking.
The secret to great chicken breast recipes and creamy chicken bakes is to cook the chicken with the other ingredients. Always check the internal temperature and let it rest properly. Follow these tips for delicious, juicy chicken every time.
Customizing Your Creamy Chicken Bake
This chicken casserole recipe is very versatile. You can add your own touch or meet special dietary needs. There are many ways to make your family-friendly recipe unique.
Optional Add-ins
Want to make the flavor even better? Try these add-ins:
- Sprinkle fresh chives on top for color and a nice smell.
- Mix in a packet of Lipton onion soup mix for a savory taste.
- Make it like a stuffing by layering chicken, soup, and stuffing mix. Just adjust the cooking time.
Seasoning Variations
Play with different spices to find your favorite. Here are some ideas:
- Use Italian seasoning instead of thyme and rosemary for a Mediterranean taste.
- Add a bit of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
- Try fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano to add freshness.
Dietary Modifications
Need to make it fit your diet? Here are some tips:
| Dietary Preference | Modification |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free | Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free crackers or almond flour. |
| Dairy-free | Use unsweetened almond or coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and skip the Parmesan cheese. |
| Low-carb | Place the chicken on steamed cauliflower florets instead of rice or potatoes. |
With these easy changes, you can make this chicken casserole recipe into a family-friendly dish. It will fit your special tastes and dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
When serving your creamy chicken bake, you have many options. This dish is both comforting and family-friendly. It goes well with various side dishes, making a complete and tasty meal.
Try serving the chicken breasts with fluffy white rice or tender egg noodles. The creamy sauce on top adds flavor and moisture. For a veggie side, steamed broccoli or green beans are great choices.
- Serve over rice or egg noodles
- Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans
- Accompany with a fresh garden salad
- Enjoy with a side of roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes
For a richer meal, pair the creamy chicken bake with mashed or roasted potatoes. The creamy dish and potatoes make a perfect match.
A garden salad is a lighter option. Mix your favorite greens, veggies, and a vinaigrette for a healthy side.
“This creamy chicken bake is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to please the whole family. The possibilities for delicious side dishes are endless!”
Choose side dishes that balance and complement the creamy chicken bake. Try different combinations to find your family’s favorites.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying your delicious baked chicken with creamy soup doesn’t have to end when the meal is over. You can easily make your make-ahead dishes into budget-friendly meals for days to come. Just follow the right storage and reheating techniques.
Proper Storage Methods
Once your chicken casserole has cooled, put leftovers in an airtight container. FoodSafety.gov says cooked chicken can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking to avoid bacterial growth.
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked chicken for 2-3 months. Just put it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This keeps the flavors locked in and the quality of your make-ahead dishes preserved.
Reheating Tips
- Reheat the chicken casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, about 20-25 minutes.
- You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring often, until hot.
- Let the reheated dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving for even heating.
Remember, the secret to delicious reheated chicken is to heat it well without drying it out. Watch the internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe 165°F (74°C).
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your make-ahead dishes and budget-friendly meals for a long time. Savor the taste of your creamy chicken bake whenever you want!
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
The Easy Baked Chicken Breast with Cream of Chicken Soup is tasty and good for you. It’s a great choice for healthy eating. Let’s look at what it offers in terms of nutrition and health benefits.
One serving has about 363 calories. It has 8g of fat, 2g of saturated fat, 91mg of cholesterol, and 599mg of sodium. But, it’s packed with 37g of protein. It also has 15% of the daily iron and 7% of potassium.
The cream of chicken soup makes the dish creamy and flavorful. It also adds to the nutritional value. Homemade chicken broth is rich in calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These minerals are good for bones. The collagen in bone broth helps with hair, skin, and nails.
This dish is not just about protein from the chicken. It also has proline and glycine, which are good for health. With its low glycemic index and high protein, it’s a great choice for a healthy eating lifestyle.
“This creamy chicken bake is not only delicious but also a nutritious option for healthy eating.”
In short, the Easy Baked Chicken Breast with Cream of Chicken Soup is a nutritious and fulfilling meal. It’s full of chicken, cream of chicken soup, and homemade broth. These ingredients provide many essential nutrients for overall health.
Conclusion
The Easy Baked Chicken Breast with Cream of Chicken Soup recipe is a hit for families. It’s easy to make and has flavors everyone loves. It’s perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers.
If you’re searching for simple chicken dinners or new recipes, this dish is great. The chicken is tender, and the sauce is rich and tasty. You can also tweak the ingredients and spices to your liking.
Try the Easy Baked Chicken Breast with Cream of Chicken Soup today. It’s easy to follow and makes a satisfying meal. Enjoy the mix of chicken, cream, and herbs with your family.
FAQ
What makes this creamy chicken bake recipe special?
This dish is tender and juicy, smothered in a delicious cream sauce. It’s a family favorite. Plus, it’s quick to make, perfect for busy days.
What are the key ingredients in this creamy chicken bake?
The main ingredients are boneless skinless chicken breasts and cream soups. You’ll also need sour cream and optional mushrooms. You can even make your own cream soups for a personal touch.
How do I prepare and bake the creamy chicken dish?
First, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer. Then, mix the soups, sour cream, onion powder, mushrooms, chives, and water in a bowl.
Pour the mixture over the chicken and sprinkle with paprika. Bake the dish uncovered for about 1 hour. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165-170°F.
How can I ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy?
Cook the chicken with the other ingredients to keep it moist. Check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked. This prevents the chicken from becoming dry.
Can I customize this creamy chicken bake recipe?
Yes, you can customize it by adding optional ingredients like Lipton onion soup mix. You can also layer the dish with seasoned chicken and creamy soup. Try different seasonings or a stuffing variation for a unique twist.
What are some recommended side dishes to serve with this creamy chicken bake?
This chicken bake pairs well with vegetables like broccoli or green beans. It also goes great with rice or noodles, using the creamy sauce as a topping. Serve it with corn or another vegetable for a complete meal.
How should I store and reheat the leftover creamy chicken bake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container. When reheating, make sure the casserole is heated thoroughly. If using pre-cooked chicken, adjust the cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.
What are the nutritional benefits of this creamy chicken bake?
A serving of this chicken bake has about 363 calories. It contains 8g total fat, 2g saturated fat, and 91mg cholesterol. It also has 599mg sodium, 33g carbohydrates, 1g dietary fiber, and 1g sugar. The dish provides 37g protein, 15% of the daily value for iron, and 7% for potassium.
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