This recipe delivers a quick, easy, and deeply satisfying meal that has been a staple in many households for generations. Originally known as “Chicken Supreme,” this dish prioritizes convenience without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when comfort food is a must. The method relies on pre-made ingredients to minimize prep time, yielding a creamy, savory chicken served over rice.
Why This Matters: The Rise of “Shortcut” Cooking
The popularity of this recipe reflects a broader trend toward efficient home cooking. Modern families often face time constraints, driving demand for meals that balance homemade taste with minimal effort. This recipe is a prime example of how pre-packaged ingredients (like Italian dressing mix and cream of mushroom soup) have become integrated into everyday cooking, streamlining processes while still offering a comforting, familiar flavor profile.
Ingredients and Preparation
The core of this dish lies in its simplicity. The recipe calls for:
- Chicken breasts: Fresh or frozen (thin-cut recommended for faster cooking).
- Italian dressing mix: Typically Good Seasons, but any similar dry mix will suffice.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Regular or light, though the full-fat version is preferred for richness.
- Cream cheese: Standard or reduced-fat, but avoid fat-free options for optimal texture.
- Chive and onion cream cheese: Adds depth of flavor, though plain cream cheese with dried chives and onion can be substituted.
- Milk or chicken broth: Optional, for thinning the sauce if needed.
To prepare, chicken breasts are placed in a baking dish and seasoned with Italian dressing mix. A sauce is created by combining softened cream cheeses and cream of mushroom soup, then spooned over the chicken. The dish is baked uncovered until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on whether the chicken is fresh or frozen).
Adaptations and Storage
This recipe is versatile:
- Slow cooker variation: For even easier preparation, the ingredients can be combined in a slow cooker and cooked on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Adding chicken broth may prevent burning.
- Doubling the recipe: Easily scaled up for larger families or meal prepping.
- Make-ahead option: Chicken can be sliced or shredded after cooking, cooled, and stored for later reheating.
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling; adding milk or broth will restore its creamy consistency.
Nutritional Information and Cost
One serving (estimated) contains approximately 541 calories, with 57g of protein, 29g of fat, and 1301mg of sodium. The total cost of ingredients is around $15.
This recipe isn’t about gourmet dining; it’s about a reliable, comforting meal that fits into a busy lifestyle. It proves that delicious doesn’t always mean complicated.
