Baked Chicken And Cheese
A creamy baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts, Swiss cheese, mushroom sauce, and crispy dressing topping, perfect for hearty family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish in a single layer.
- Layer Swiss cheese slices over the chicken.
- Mix the can of cream of mushroom soup with milk until well combined.
- Spread the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and cheese.
- Sprinkle the Pepperidge Farm dressing evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/4 hours (75 minutes).
- Cover with foil at the end of baking if dressing starts to brown too much.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream to the soup mixture. If Swiss cheese isn't your favorite, Gruyère or mozzarella are excellent substitutes. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken to reduce baking time. For added flavor, try seasoning the chicken with garlic powder or paprika before layering the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It's also delicious alongside buttery mashed potatoes or rice, which soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with the Chicken A La King Over Biscuits for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken And Cheese contains roughly 362 calories, with 27g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. At about 362 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Make sure to thaw them completely before baking for even cooking. If using frozen, increase the baking time by 15-20 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I do if I don't have cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a simple substitute by mixing equal parts of heavy cream and chicken broth, adding sautéed mushrooms if you have them. Alternatively, a can of cream of chicken soup works well too, providing a different flavor profile while still being creamy.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts and low-fat cheese. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using a roux and fresh mushrooms. Adding more vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).