Crouton Chicken
Crouton Chicken is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a creamy soup base, topped with melted Cheddar cheese and crunchy croutons. This flavorful casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put chicken pieces into baking dish with cream soup, milk, salt, pepper, and sherry.
- Cook for about 30 minutes covered in a 375° oven.
- Top with cheese and croutons.
- Cook for another 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sherry and seasonings for a few hours before baking. If you don't have cooking sherry, white wine or chicken broth can work as substitutes. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions for additional texture and flavor. If you prefer a bit of crunch, use homemade croutons over store-bought.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese and cream. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Potatoes for a comforting meal. For a light touch, consider a tangy vinaigrette on your salad to complement the creamy flavors of the chicken.
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 it in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook, as this may dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crouton Chicken contains roughly 1162 calories, with 26g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (130% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and protein (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2733mg per serving (119% 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 best to thaw them first for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for the condensed cream soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple cream sauce by whisking together equal parts of butter and flour, then gradually adding milk until thickened. Season to taste, and it will work well as a substitute for the condensed soup.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or cauliflower. You can also use veggie broth and a plant-based cream alternative in place of the condensed soup to maintain the creamy texture and 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).