Very Good Chicken
A hearty, savory chicken dish layered with dried beef and creamy mushroom or celery soup, perfect for comforting family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer one large package dried beef in a 10x15-inch pan.
- Wrap chicken in Sizzlean bacon (remove chicken skin).
- Layer chicken on top of the dried beef.
- Pour over one can of cream of chicken, celery, or mushroom soup.
- Add one and a half cups of sour cream over the top.
- Bake for 3 hours at 275°F or 2.5 hours at 325°F, uncovered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using turkey bacon instead of Sizzlean bacon for a healthier option. If you're out of cream of chicken or celery soup, feel free to substitute with cream of mushroom soup or even homemade chicken broth for added depth. Ensure the chicken is completely wrapped to retain moisture during baking, which keeps it juicy and flavorful, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken and cream sauces. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Nells' Tomato-Cucumber Soup for a light starter. For a heartier meal, consider serving over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the dish's creamy texture and delicious flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Good Chicken contains roughly 130 calories, with 6g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 893mg per serving (39% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it should be thawed completely before wrapping in bacon and baking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from being undercooked in the center.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the cream soups before pouring it over the layered ingredients. This will give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the original flavors.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt works as an excellent substitute, offering a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of cream cheese and milk to achieve a creamy consistency.
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).