Baked Chicken Reuben(1982 National Chicken Contest Winner)
A savory baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese, soaked in tangy Thousand Island dressing—perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a greased baking pan.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Spread drained and pressed sauerkraut over the chicken.
- Top with Swiss cheese slices.
- Pour Thousand Island dressing evenly over the cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for about 1 1/2 hours or until done.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a layer of sautéed onions or bell peppers before the sauerkraut. If Swiss cheese isn't available, Gruyère or mozzarella can be great substitutes. To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked by using a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Wild Rice Salad, offering a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. For a complete dinner, consider serving with crusty bread or a light soup, such as Twenty Minute Soup for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken Reuben(1982 National Chicken Contest Winner) contains roughly 535 calories, with 49g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (98% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and calcium (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2047mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and layer it with sauerkraut and cheese a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when baked.
What can I use instead of Thousand Island dressing?
If you don't have Thousand Island dressing, you can make a simple substitute by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, and a dash of vinegar or pickle relish. This will give you a similar tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.
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).