Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is a dish that combines convenience with amazing flavors. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to prepare chicken that will leave your family and friends raving about your cooking skills. This recipe results in tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that enhances every bite. Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish fits the bill perfectly.
Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as the chicken bakes to perfection. The creamy sauce, made with cream of chicken soup, adds a comforting touch, making it a favorite among many. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours of preparation.
Cooking can be a joy when you have straightforward recipes like this one. The Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup takes the hassle out of meal preparation while providing a delectable dining experience. In this article, you will learn why this recipe stands out, the preparation and cooking times, a comprehensive list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and how to serve this delightful dish. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is not just another chicken dish; it has qualities that make it truly special. Here are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
1. Quick and Easy: The preparation for this dish is minimal, making it perfect for busy evenings.
2. Fuss-Free Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, ensuring you won’t need to make an extra trip to the store.
3. Deliciously Creamy Sauce: The cream of chicken soup creates a rich sauce that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
4. Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
5. Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
6. Versatile Serving Suggestions: Pair it with various sides, from salads to grain dishes, to suit your family’s preferences.
With all these enticing qualities, it’s easy to see why this recipe is a go-to for many home cooks. Each bite of this baked chicken will remind you why comfort food is so comforting!

Preparation and Cooking Time

When preparing the Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup, timing is everything. Below is a breakdown of the time required for this recipe:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
– Total Time: About 55-60 minutes
These times may vary slightly depending on your kitchen equipment and experience level, but this guideline will help you manage your cooking efficiently.

Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is straightforward when you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, onion soup mix, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
4. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
5. Arrange Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
6. Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
7. Cover with Foil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
9. Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
10. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Following these steps will yield a delicious, creamy baked chicken that is sure to impress!

How to Serve

Serving the Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some suggestions:
1. Presentation: Serve the chicken directly from the baking dish for a rustic feel, or transfer it to a serving platter for a more polished look.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
3. Vegetable Sides: Consider serving with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
4. Leftover Transformation: Any leftovers can be shredded and used in wraps, tacos, or sandwiches for another meal option.
By thoughtfully considering how to serve this dish, you can create a memorable dining experience for your family and friends. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of the Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh chicken and high-quality cream of chicken soup.
– Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning the chicken well. This enhances the overall taste of the dish.
– Let It Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few delicious variations to try:
1. Herb-Infused Chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
2. Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
3. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the sauce for an extra kick.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
– Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Special Equipment

To make the Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup, you will need the following equipment:
– 9×13-inch baking dish
– Mixing bowl
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Aluminum foil
– Meat thermometer for checking doneness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just be aware that the cooking time may increase, so check for doneness regularly.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use homemade cream of chicken soup or a similar cream-based soup, like cream of mushroom, for a different flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your onion soup mix is also gluten-free.

How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use low-fat sour cream and a reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup to make the dish lighter.

Conclusion

The Best Baked Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and sure to please. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. You’ll love how simple it is to create a meal that feels indulgent without all the fuss. Enjoy this delightful recipe with your loved ones!