Extra Special Baked Chicken
A savory baked chicken dish featuring dried beef, bacon, and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or entertaining guests with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Run cold water over dried beef; drain.
- Arrange the dried beef in the bottom of a 12 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Place the halved chicken breasts over the dried beef.
- Top each chicken breast half with a slice of bacon.
- Bake until chicken is cooked through and bacon is crispy, approximately 45 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine cream of mushroom soup and sour cream; heat until warmed.
- Serve the baked chicken with the mushroom sauce poured over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the dried beef with prosciutto or ham for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use low-fat sour cream and cream of mushroom soup. Ensure the chicken is evenly spaced in the baking dish for even cooking. You can also marinate the chicken in your favorite spices beforehand for enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Extra Special Baked Chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Serve it alongside rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy mushroom sauce. For a variation, consider offering a side of garlic bread or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep the bacon crispy. You can also microwave individual portions, but be mindful that the bacon may become chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Extra Special Baked Chicken contains roughly 516 calories, with 21g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% 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 completely before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken absorb flavors from the dried beef and bacon. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a light Caesar salad. For a hearty meal, mashed potatoes or rice work wonderfully to complement the creamy sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, remove the foil and adjust the baking time as needed if it's been refrigerated.
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).