Exceptionally Good Chicken
A comforting baked chicken dish featuring tender breasts topped with Swiss cheese, creamy sauce, and crispy stuffing, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the chicken with grated Swiss cheese.
- Dilute the cream of chicken soup with 1/4 can of water and pour evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the dry dressing/stuffing mix over the top and dab with margarine.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove the cover and bake for a few more minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine or a dollop of sour cream to the soup mixture. If Swiss cheese isn't available, Gruyère or mozzarella are great substitutes. You can also use homemade stuffing mix for an extra flavor boost. Adjust baking time based on chicken thickness; ensure it's cooked to 165°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice. Consider serving with a creamy sauce or gravy to enhance the flavors. For more delightful ideas, browse other American recipes that feature chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on medium heat, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Exceptionally Good Chicken contains roughly 594 calories, with 9g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1127mg per serving (49% 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 make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve the right texture. If using frozen, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you need a substitute for cream of chicken soup, consider using cream of mushroom soup or a homemade version made from sautéed onions, garlic, and chicken broth thickened with flour and cream. This will maintain the creamy texture while offering a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use skinless chicken breasts and opt for low-sodium cream of chicken soup. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a reduced-fat cheese option. Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can boost nutrition without sacrificing 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).