Chunky Chicken
A hearty baked chicken dish coated with seasoned stuffing and topped with melted margarine, offering rich flavors and a comforting texture suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Dip each chicken breast in the sour cream mixture.
- Roll the coated chicken breasts in the herb stuffing mix.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased casserole dish.
- Pour 1/2 cup melted margarine over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour until cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the sour cream mixture. If you want a bit of zest, try using lime juice instead of lemon juice. You can also substitute the herb stuffing mix with a homemade blend of breadcrumbs and herbs if preferred. For a healthier twist, use skinless chicken breasts and opt for olive oil instead of margarine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chunky chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up any extra sauce. For an easy weeknight dinner, consider complementing this dish with a simple garlic bread or the comforting flavors of a Chicken Casserole With Spaghetti.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This method helps maintain moisture and keeps the coating crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chunky Chicken contains roughly 827 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (80% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 814mg per serving (35% 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 it's recommended to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking. If using frozen, increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked through.
What can I substitute for herb stuffing mix?
You can create your own stuffing mix by combining dried bread crumbs, mixed herbs, and some seasoning. Alternatively, crushed crackers or seasoned panko can also work well as a substitute for the herb stuffing mix.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or a gluten-free stuffing mix instead of the traditional herb stuffing mix. Additionally, double-check the Worcestershire sauce for gluten-free options, as some brands contain gluten.
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).