Chicken Cheese Dinner
A hearty chicken dinner featuring tender baked chicken legs topped with a savory mushroom and onion sauce, melted cheese, and flavorful spices, perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Melt margarine in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Coat chicken legs and thighs with flour, then place skin side down in the melted margarine.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Turn the chicken pieces and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until browned.
- Remove from oven and reduce heat to 325°F.
- Add drained whole onions and chopped drained mushrooms to the pan.
- In a bowl, mix evaporated milk, cream of mushroom soup, grated sharp cheese, and pepper.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve hot over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you don't have whole onions, fresh onions or shallots can be sautéed and added. You can also substitute the sharp cheese with a milder variety or a blend for different flavor profiles. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, skinless chicken can be used. This dish is a great way to use up leftover vegetables or even incorporate some fresh greens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Cheese Dinner over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast. This dish also goes well with garlic bread for a heartier meal. For a fun twist, try serving it with a side of Chicken Salad Wraps for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, to maintain the dish's creaminess. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cheese Dinner contains roughly 535 calories, with 11g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C.
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 different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or a mix of cuts like wings or drumsticks. Just ensure even cooking by adjusting the baking time according to the size of the pieces. Thicker cuts may need a little longer to ensure they are cooked through.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable layers, then refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, assemble and bake. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn, and reheat thoroughly before serving.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can make a quick substitute using a mix of sautéed mushrooms, cream, and a bit of broth. Alternatively, use any other cream soup like cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce for a different flavor.
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).