Pan Chicken
A comforting baked chicken dish featuring creamy custard layers topped with cracker crumbs and margarine, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook milk, flour, egg, salt, and pepper together until thickened like custard.
- Place a layer of skinned and boned chicken in a baking dish.
- Pour a layer of the cooked custard over the chicken.
- Repeat layering with chicken and custard as needed.
- Mix cracker crumbs with melted margarine.
- Sprinkle the cracker crumb mixture on top of the layered chicken.
- Dot the top with additional margarine.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the milk with chicken broth. If you prefer a crustier topping, use panko breadcrumbs instead of cracker crumbs. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the custard mixture can enhance the flavor. Ensure the chicken is evenly layered to allow for even cooking throughout the dish, similar to other American recipes like Muriel's Chicken Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy custard. For a comforting weeknight dinner, consider serving alongside mashed potatoes or rice, similar to how you might enjoy Mrs. Perini's Special Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out, ensuring a warm and flavorful dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pan Chicken contains roughly 762 calories, with 19g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value) and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 911mg per serving (40% 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 bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using bone-in chicken, consider simmering it in broth beforehand to enhance flavor and tenderness.
What can I substitute for the egg in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana can work, but be aware they may slightly alter the flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free cracker crumbs. Ensure the chicken broth is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version 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).