Are you craving a heartwarming, delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this classic scalloped chicken recipe! This dish is the epitome of comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent without the guilt. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick dinner idea or even a make-ahead meal. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated!
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles or rice (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as Pie!
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginners. Let's get cooking!
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Scalloped Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using noodles or rice, add them to the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the noodles/rice (if using). Add the cooked chicken to the baking dish.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Scalloped Chicken
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry. Ensure it's cooked through but still juicy.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and thyme add a vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Add a little spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Delicious Variations: Get Creative!
- Add different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
- Use different vegetables: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or peas to the sauce.
- Make it a casserole: Add cooked potatoes or other root vegetables for a heartier casserole.
- Use different noodles: Use any pasta you like, even rotini or penne.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This classic scalloped chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a perfect example of delicious dishes that are simple to prepare, yet incredibly satisfying. Enjoy!