Mary Sue'S Chicken
A hearty baked chicken dish layered with dried beef and bacon, topped with creamy soup and sour cream for a rich, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put oil in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place dried beef in the bottom of the dish.
- Lay the chicken breasts on top of the dried beef.
- Put half a slice of raw bacon on each piece of chicken.
- Pour cream of chicken soup over the chicken.
- Spread sour cream evenly over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes until cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon for a lighter option. If you're short on time, try substituting the cream of chicken soup with homemade chicken gravy. Make sure to check the chicken's internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. This dish also pairs well with vegetables, so feel free to add a side of steamed broccoli or French-Cut Green Bean Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for an added touch of flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or mashed potatoes to create a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with rice or a side of Hash Brown Surprise, which complements the creamy texture of Mary Sue's Chicken beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Sue'S Chicken contains roughly 535 calories, with 20g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 610mg per serving (27% 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 be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. It's best to do this overnight in the refrigerator to ensure even cooking. If you place frozen chicken directly in the oven, you may need to increase baking time to ensure it's cooked through.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that will provide a similar tangy flavor. You could also use crème fraîche or a mixture of cream cheese and a bit of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the chicken before baking. Alternatively, you could use spicy bacon or add diced jalapeños to the cream of chicken soup before pouring it over the chicken.
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).