Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This baked chicken recipe with cream of chicken soup is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that's guaranteed to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. This recipe offers a fantastic blend of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, all without sacrificing taste. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. If using, saute the onions and mushrooms in a pan until softened before adding them to the dish.
Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, mayonnaise, thyme, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
Combine and bake: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve and enjoy: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add some veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli florets, carrots, or peas, during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A dash of paprika, oregano, or cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Bake: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken: Increase the amount of mushrooms to create a richer, more mushroom-forward flavor.
- Cheesy Chicken Bake: Use a blend of different cheeses for a more complex and flavorful cheese topping. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a sharp provolone would be delicious additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy baked chicken recipe with cream of chicken soup is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that don't require extensive cooking skills. It's a simple, satisfying, and adaptable recipe perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!