Chicken In The Basket
Chicken In The Basket offers a cozy, flavorful dish featuring tender browned chicken paired with mushrooms and onions, all baked to perfection in foil baskets. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, it combines savory tastes with simple, hands-on preparation for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Allow 3 pieces of chicken per person.
- Brown chicken well in a skillet on top of the stove.
- For each serving, cut a 12-inch square of foil.
- Place 3 pieces of chicken in the center of the foil square.
- Add a few mushrooms and chopped onions to each serving.
- Add 3 tablespoons of canned milk or cream to each serving.
- Gather the foil around the chicken and seal the edges to form a basket.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 250° to 300°F for about 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in herbs or spices before browning it. You can substitute the canned milk with heavy cream for a richer sauce, or use vegetable broth for a lighter option. If you have leftover vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, feel free to add them to the foil basket for added nutrition. This dish is a great way to use up ingredients from your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken baskets with a side of steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette pairs nicely with the richness of the chicken and cream. For a heartier option, consider serving with roasted potatoes or a warm bread roll. This dish pairs beautifully with Quick And Easy Cajun Chicken for a themed dinner night.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the chicken in a baking dish covered with foil to retain moisture, and heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This method helps to keep the chicken tender and avoids drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken In The Basket contains roughly 13 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 for this recipe?
It's best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but if using frozen, ensure it's fully thawed before browning. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Cooking frozen chicken directly in the foil can lead to uneven cooking, so always prioritize thawing for best results.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
You can use any type of mushrooms you like, such as button, cremini, or shiitake. Each type adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish. If you prefer a milder taste, stick with button mushrooms; for a more robust flavor, opt for shiitake or portobello.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken baskets ahead of time by assembling them in foil and refrigerating them until you're ready to bake. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This is a great option for a hassle-free dinner.
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).