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This creamy baked chicken recipe comes together quickly and easily making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without a lot of fuss. The simple combination of chicken breasts and cream of chicken soup creates a rich dish that always feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I first tried this on a hectic weeknight when I had very little time but still wanted a cozy dinner. It quickly became a favorite because it feels special without any complicated steps.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: for lean protein choose breasts that are uniform in size so they cook evenly
- Cream of chicken soup: adds richness and moisture pick the classic kind with good flavor rather than low sodium for best taste
- Onion powder: brings subtle savoriness opt for fresh spices to maximize aroma
- Garlic powder: enhances the depth try to get a fine grind for even coverage
- Salt and pepper: balance the flavors use kosher salt if possible for easier seasoning
- Low-sodium chicken broth: adds moisture without overwhelming salt content check the label to avoid anything too salty
Instructions
- Build The Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and help with cleanup
- Season The Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts neatly in the dish. Generously season all sides with salt pepper onion powder and garlic powder. This layer of seasoning is your base flavor so do not be shy about it
- Add Cream Of Chicken Soup:
- Spoon the cream of chicken soup evenly over each chicken breast covering the tops fully. This will keep the meat moist and infuse it with creaminess as it bakes
- Pour Broth Around Edges:
- Carefully pour low-sodium chicken broth into the sides of the baking dish avoiding washing off the seasoning or soup from the chicken. The broth adds steam in the oven helping the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy
- Cover And Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil tightly to trap steam and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 75 degrees Celsius. Use a meat thermometer if possible for accuracy
- Serve Warm:
- Remove the foil and serve the chicken hot drizzling the leftover sauce from the dish over the top for extra flavor and moisture. This sauce is the best part so do not skip it
My favorite part of this dish is the creamy sauce that forms when the soup and broth combine during baking. It reminds me of my mom’s simple cooking on weeknights when we all needed something filling and fast after school.
Storage tips
This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating cover the chicken with a little extra broth or water to keep it from drying out. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through
Ingredient swaps
If you want a lighter sauce use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead. You can also swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker meat which tends to stay moist longer especially if cooked a bit longer at a lower temperature
Serving ideas
Serve with steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a fresh contrast. Mashed potatoes or rice soak up the creamy sauce making a perfect side to complete the meal. A crisp salad on the side cuts through the richness
Storage tips are key to making this dish stretch across the week. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and add a splash of broth before reheating to keep the chicken tender. This makes it a great option for lunch on busy days or easy dinner prep.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for even cooking and tenderness in this dish.
- → Can I use fresh herbs instead of powders?
Fresh garlic and onion can deepen the flavor but adjust quantities as they’re more potent than powders.
- → Is low-sodium broth necessary?
Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels, allowing for better seasoning balance.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the dish in advance and bake just before serving to retain moisture and flavor.