"Fit For Company Chicken"(Or 3 Meat Dinner)
A hearty, comforting chicken dish wrapped in bacon and topped with savory mushroom and celery soups, ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make 8 pieces.
- Wrap each chicken piece with half a strip of bacon, securing it around the chicken.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken on a baking dish lined with dried beef.
- Combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, and sour cream in a bowl.
- Pour the soup mixture over the wrapped chicken breasts.
- Cover the top with remaining slices of dried beef.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for 2 hours.
- Serve hot over rice or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular bacon. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. You can also experiment with different cream soups, like cream of chicken, for a varied taste. Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. Consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for balance. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings, alongside options like Baked Ham Sandwiches for a full menu.
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 and cover it with foil to retain moisture, then warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Fit For Company Chicken"(Or 3 Meat Dinner) contains roughly 1121 calories, with 9g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 112g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 875mg per serving (38% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you don't have dried beef, consider using thinly sliced deli meat, such as ham or turkey. Alternatively, you could omit it altogether or use a layer of cooked and crumbled bacon for added flavor. Just be mindful that the texture and taste will change slightly.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Layer the dried beef at the bottom, add the bacon-wrapped chicken, and top with the soup mixture. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. This method will yield tender chicken with a delicious sauce.
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).