Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This creamy baked chicken recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s surprisingly easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers a comforting, delicious meal the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and homemade cooking without sacrificing taste. It’s a fantastic example of how delicious dishes can be simple to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can 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
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
Preparing the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, mayonnaise, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. The creaminess of this sauce is key to the dish's deliciousness.
Assembling and Baking:
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Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each breast is coated.
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If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This adds a delightful cheesy topping and extra flavor.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken breast; it should register 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this creamy baked chicken with your favorite sides. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad all pair perfectly. This recipe is versatile and complements a wide array of side dishes.
Tips for the Best Creamy Baked Chicken:
- Don't overbake the chicken: Overbaked chicken can become dry. Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh thyme on hand, use about 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme instead of the dried thyme. Fresh herbs will add a brighter, more intense flavor.
- Add some veggies: For a heartier meal, add some chopped vegetables like onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the baking dish along with the chicken.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Italian-Inspired: Substitute cream of mushroom soup for the cream of chicken soup and add Italian seasoning instead of thyme.
- Creamy Parmesan Chicken: Use cream of mushroom soup and top with grated Parmesan cheese instead of cheddar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without cheese):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This creamy baked chicken recipe is a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can be both healthy and delicious. It's a versatile recipe that you can easily customize to your liking, making it a great addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!