Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort? Imagine tender pieces of chicken enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce, infusing your kitchen with delightful aromas. This Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes cozy family dinners and cherished memories.
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends when you want to indulge in something hearty yet simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. As you savor each bite, the combination of its rich flavors will remind you why this classic recipe holds a special place in many hearts.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you’re short on time but still want a delicious home-cooked meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have at home. Swap out vegetables or use leftover chicken to make it even easier.
- Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture paired with tender chicken creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting—ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients for Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal for feeding a family, ensuring they cook evenly and remain juicy.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This serves as the base sauce, providing richness and flavor; opt for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Onion Powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth; you can also use fresh onions if desired.
- Garlic Powder: Offers aromatic flavor without the fuss of peeling cloves; it enhances the overall taste profile beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors; adjust according to your preference.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding moisture during cooking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Rub the seasonings into the meat for better flavor absorption.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and well-blended; this will create a luscious sauce for your chicken.
Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy mixture over them evenly so every piece is coated.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve
Remove from oven and let it rest for about five minutes before serving. Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining sauce over each portion for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs or spices to elevate flavors further.
- Control Cook Time: Always check doneness using a meat thermometer; this ensures perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or carrots during baking for added nutrition and flavor contrast.
Mistakes to avoid
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: When preparing Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup, it’s essential to season your chicken properly. Many cooks underestimate the importance of seasoning. A simple sprinkle of salt, pepper, and herbs can elevate the flavors significantly. Without proper seasoning, your dish may taste bland. Always taste as you cook and adjust the seasoning accordingly for a more flavorful outcome.
- Overcooking the Chicken: One common mistake when making Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is overcooking the chicken. This leads to dry and tough meat, which detracts from the dish’s overall quality. To avoid this, monitor the cooking time carefully and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) without exceeding it.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of ingredients can make or break your dish. When preparing Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup, opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and a good brand of cream soup. Low-quality ingredients may result in an unappetizing meal. Investing in quality components ensures that your dish is rich in flavor and worth serving to friends and family.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed Vegetables: Fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans complement the creamy sauce and add a vibrant touch to your meal.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve this dish over fluffy rice or nutty quinoa to soak up the rich flavors of the cream soup, enhancing each bite.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, making every meal more satisfying.
FAQs
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can make a homemade substitute using a roux. Combine equal parts butter and flour in a saucepan over medium heat until it forms a paste. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until the mixture thickens. This homemade alternative works great for Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup and allows you to control the flavors.
Can I make Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup ahead of time. Cook the chicken and mix it with the cream soup as per your recipe instructions. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Is Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup healthy?
While Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is deliciously rich, its healthiness often depends on your ingredient choices. Opt for lean chicken breast and low-sodium soup to reduce calories and sodium content. Adding fresh vegetables can boost nutritional value while enhancing flavor, making it a more balanced meal option.
Can I freeze Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Freezing Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Conclusion for Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup
In conclusion, Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is not only easy to prepare but also offers endless possibilities for serving and customization. Whether you choose to pair it with rice, steamed veggies, or savory bread, this dish creates a comforting experience that is sure to please everyone at your table. By opting for healthier substitutes when necessary and preparing ahead of time, you can enjoy this delightful meal anytime. Remember to experiment with flavors and ingredients that suit your taste preferences while keeping this recipe as a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup
Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. This creamy casserole features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, savory sauce made from cream of chicken soup, enhanced with aromatic seasonings. With minimal prep time and versatile ingredients, you can easily customize this dish to suit your taste preferences by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or steamed veggies for a satisfying meal that warms the heart and brings back cherished memories around the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the baking dish and pour the sauce evenly over it.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Incorporate vegetables such as broccoli or carrots during baking for added nutrition.