Baked Cream Chicken Breast
A comforting baked chicken dish featuring tender breasts topped with Swiss cheese, creamy soup, and savory stuffing, perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a baking dish.
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared dish.
- Cover each chicken breast with a slice of Swiss cheese.
- In a bowl, dilute the cream of chicken soup with water and pour over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the stuffing mix evenly over the top.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing.
- Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and bubbly.
- Serve hot, preferably with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in your favorite herbs or spices before cooking. If Swiss cheese isn't available, mozzarella or provolone can be great substitutes. For a healthier twist, you can use low-fat cream of chicken soup or homemade Chicken Pot Pie Filling for a fresher taste. Ensure the chicken is evenly cooked by using a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Baked Cream Chicken Breast hot, preferably over a bed of rice to soak up the creamy sauce. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting option, consider serving it alongside Easy Chicken-Broccoli Casserole for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be cautious to avoid drying out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cream Chicken Breast contains roughly 580 calories, with 29g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 923mg per serving (40% 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 use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. It's best to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even baking. If cooking from frozen, increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes and ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
What can I substitute for Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix?
If you don't have Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix, you can use any dry stuffing mix available at your local store. Alternatively, homemade stuffing made from cubed bread, herbs, and spices can work well. Just ensure to adjust the liquid amounts accordingly to achieve the desired texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. This allows for even cooking.
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).