Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, comforting meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This creamy chicken breast recipe with cream of mushroom soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper. It's a simple, healthy meal the whole family will enjoy, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. This recipe is one of those easy recipes that delivers big on flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and surprisingly sophisticated!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. If you're using cheddar cheese, stir it in now.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the creamy mushroom sauce evenly over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy! This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetable side.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, ensure there's enough space between the breasts to allow for even browning. If necessary, sear them in batches.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to prevent undercooked poultry.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. A dash of paprika or dried thyme would complement the cream of mushroom beautifully.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish with your favorite vegetables like sliced mushrooms, chopped onions, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
- Creamy Variations: Try using different cream soups, such as cream of celery or cream of chicken, for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy chicken breast recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don’t compromise on taste. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious dish the whole family can enjoy. Give it a try and let us know what you think! We're confident this will become one of your best recipes.