Pat'S Chicken
Pat's Chicken is a comforting baked dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with creamy mushroom soup, spinach, and a crispy seasoned breadcrumb crust. Rich and savory, it pairs well with rice or potatoes, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Defrost the spinach and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Spread the spinach in a 9 x 12 inch oiled baking pan.
- Place the chicken breasts over the spinach.
- Pour the cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise evenly over the dish.
- Sprinkle the seasoned bread crumbs over the top.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in your favorite herbs or spices before baking. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade versions or use a low-sodium option for a healthier twist. If you want a richer taste, try adding some garlic powder or onion powder to the seasoned bread crumbs. This dish can also be adapted to include other vegetables, making it versatile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pat's Chicken with a side of fluffy rice or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Cheesy Chicken Chowder for a comforting dinner. You can also add a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a more colorful plate, consider adding roasted carrots or steamed broccoli as a side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken and spinach in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pat'S Chicken contains roughly 897 calories, with 64g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (128% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg per serving (76% 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 fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just be sure to wilt it in a pan with a bit of oil before adding it to the baking dish. This will help reduce moisture and ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe. It will add creaminess and a bit of tang without the extra fat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
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).