BAKED CHICKEN WITH CREAM OF MUSHROOM SOUP: A FOOLPROOF FAMILY FAVORITE

Key Info:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 60 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Easy

Dietary Tags: Gluten-free option, Low-carb adaptable

Equipment Needed:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer (recommended)

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Prepare the chicken:

• Trim any excess fat
• Pat chicken dry with paper towels
• Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper

3. Prepare the sauce:

• In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with milk
• Whisk until smooth and slightly thinned

4. Assemble the dish:

• Grease baking dish
• Arrange chicken in single layer
• Pour soup mixture evenly over chicken
• Sprinkle shredded cheese on top

5. Bake:

• Cover dish with foil
• Bake for 35-45 minutes
• Internal temperature must reach 165°F
• Remove foil for last 5 minutes to brown cheese

6. Finish:

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving
• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired

Crucial Tips:

• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness
• Don’t overcook – check at 35 minutes
• Thin chicken breasts cook faster
• Can substitute soup flavors if desired

Variations:

• Add sliced mushrooms
• Use different cheese blends
• Mix in rice for one-pan meal
• Try with boneless thighs for more moisture

Storage:

• Refrigerate in airtight container
• Keeps 3-4 days
• Reheat at 325°F until warmed through

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Don’t skip covering with foil
• Avoid overseasoning
• Check chicken temperature
• Use fresh, not expired ingredients

Nutrition (per serving):

Protein: 25g

Calories: 280

Fat: 12g

Carbs: 5g

Pro Tips:

• For crispy top, broil last 2 minutes
• Use low-sodium soup for healthier version
• Pair with simple green salad

Keywords: Baked chicken, cream of mushroom, easy chicken recipe, one-pan meal, comfort food

Enjoy your deliciously simple chicken dinner!