Easy Smothered Chicken

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that combines tender chicken, savory bacon, and a creamy, cheesy gravy. Our Easy Smothered Chicken is a delightful one-pan marvel that brings all these flavors together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re a fan of chicken thighs or simply can’t resist a rich gravy, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Smothered Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a single pan, you can whip up a hearty meal that satisfies even the most discerning palates. The combination of crispy bacon, seared chicken, and a cheesy sauce is sure to win over anyone who tries it.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Skillet
• 13×9 baking dish
• Paper towels
• Pie plate or shallow bowl
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

• 6 medium potatoes
• 6 boneless, skinless chicken tenders
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 – 10oz can of Campbell’s cheddar cheese soup
• 1 1/4 cup milk
• 6-8 slices of bacon, chopped up and cooked with drippings reserved
• 1/2 cup – 1 cup of cheese, depending on preference
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Whisk together the cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth. Set aside 1 cup of this mixture for later use.
3. Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Spray the bottom and sides of a 13×9 baking dish with cooking spray.
5. Layer a single layer of potato slices along the bottom, then top with 1/3 of the soup mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Repeat the layering process two more times, creating three layers of potatoes, each topped with some soup mixture and seasoned.
7. Top the final layer with sliced onion, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
9. Season chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper, then sauté in the bacon drippings until lightly browned. Set aside.
10. Remove the baking dish from the oven and uncover. Arrange chicken tenderloins on top of the potatoes and pour the reserved cheese soup mixture over the chicken.
11. Cover tightly again and continue cooking for another 30 minutes.
12. Remove from oven, uncover, and sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and potatoes. Top with bacon pieces.
13. Return to the oven, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
• Cook the bacon until crispy for added texture.
• Don’t rush the gravy – whisk it until smooth for the best consistency.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup mixture. You can also substitute chicken thighs for the tenderloins if you prefer a richer flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is a comforting indulgence with protein-rich chicken and a satisfying cheese sauce, making it a great choice for a hearty meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Easy Smothered Chicken as much as we do. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. If you give this recipe a try, we’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations! Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media. Happy cooking!