Ham And Cheese Baked Chicken
A savory baked chicken dish featuring tender meat wrapped in ham and melted cheese, with hints of apple and aromatic spices. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers crispy, browned chicken with delicious stuffing and a flavorful glaze. Easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and dry the chicken or hens.
- Sprinkle the inside with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
- Place the chicken or hens on a rack, breast side down, in a shallow pan.
- Stuff the cavities with sliced tart apple.
- Roast at 350°F for about 45 minutes (35 minutes for hens) or until the juices run fairly clear when pierced.
- Turn the chicken or hens upside down.
- Brush with melted butter or margarine.
- Fold ham and Cheddar cheese slices around the chicken.
- Roast at 400°F for another 20 to 35 minutes or until the chicken is tender and nicely browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked ham or a different type of cheese like Gruyere. If you prefer a lighter dish, omit the butter or use a cooking spray. Be sure to let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices. This dish is a delicious twist on traditional American recipes, perfect for family dinners.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham and cheese baked chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice pilaf to soak up the delicious juices. For a festive touch, garnish with slices of red bell pepper or fresh herbs to enhance presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps maintain its crispy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power, but this may soften the skin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Baked Chicken contains roughly 534 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 800mg per serving (35% 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 boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly since boneless pieces cook faster. Bake them at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you want a different flavor, substitute Cheddar with Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each cheese will bring its own unique taste to the dish while still complementing the ham.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any breading. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you use, like the ham and cheese, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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).