Make a quick and delicious dinner with this easy cream of mushroom soup chicken bake recipe. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken breasts, creamy mushroom soup, and melted mozzarella cheese, creating a comforting meal perfect for busy nights. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s an ideal choice for family meals, pairing well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Perfect for those looking for a savory, easy-to-make chicken casserole.

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
Pepper, to taste (optional)
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Position the rack in the top third of the oven for even cooking and browning.
Prep the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Arrange the chicken side by side in a 9×13-inch casserole dish or a similar-sized baking dish.
Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, and pepper, if desired.
Add the Sauce and Cheese
Pour the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken.
Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Optional Browning
For a golden, bubbly topping, remove the foil and broil the dish for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serve
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick: Perfect for busy weeknights, with minimal prep time and ingredients.
Comforting Flavors: Creamy sauce and melted cheese make this dish a family favorite.
Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings or add vegetables to suit your taste.

Tips

Thinner Chicken: Cutting the chicken lengthwise ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or a blend for different flavors.
Make Ahead: Assemble the dish earlier in the day and bake when ready.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Soup Alternatives: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a flavor twist.
Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy cream soup for a lactose-free option.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Adjust the baking time as needed.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, assemble the dish without baking and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Serving and Suggestions

Pairings: Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes: Add a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.