Continental Chicken
Continentally inspired chicken breasts wrapped in bacon and dried beef, baked to perfection with a creamy mushroom sauce. This hearty dish offers rich flavors with a savory, creamy profile, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions, combining comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line the bottom of the pan with dried beef slices.
- Wrap each chicken breast with a bacon slice and place on top of the dried beef.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 30 minutes.
- Pour off the bacon fat.
- Mix together the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F, cover, and bake for 1 to 1½ hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a sprinkle of garlic powder to the sour cream mixture. If you want to cut down on calories, substitute turkey bacon for the traditional bacon. Additionally, you can use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different taste. This recipe is reminiscent of American recipes and is perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Continental Chicken alongside fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with Chicken Escallops for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner experience, consider adding crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring the chicken remains moist. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Continental Chicken contains roughly 642 calories, with 18g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium.
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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking, and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you don't have dried beef, you can use thinly sliced prosciutto or even ham as a substitute. This will add a similar savory flavor and help keep the chicken moist during baking.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check if the chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
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).