Are you craving a delicious, comforting, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This Million Dollar Chicken Bake is a family favorite, packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress. It's the perfect example of a healthy meal that doesn't sacrifice taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet stunning recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your chicken bake.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onions and garlic with the cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top. This adds a delightful crunchy texture and a subtle buttery flavor.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 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 bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Serve hot and enjoy this easy and delicious meal!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate some chopped vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for a healthier and more nutritious meal.
- Cheese Please: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of Mexican cheeses would be a delicious alternative.
- Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a tablespoon or two of sour cream or cream cheese along with the milk.
- Breadcrumbs: Substitute panko breadcrumbs for the Ritz crackers for a different textural experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Million Dollar Chicken Bake is a versatile and satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or even a potluck. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a true winner in our book, a recipe that effortlessly blends quick dinner ideas with homemade cooking. Enjoy!