Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken Recipe: A Comforting Family Favorite
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of home-cooked meals wafting through the air, evoking memories of warmth, comfort, and family gatherings. Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is one such dish that never fails to bring a smile to everyone’s face. This timeless recipe combines tender chicken breasts, creamy sauce, and a buttery finish for a truly comforting dining experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations to suit different dietary preferences. So, let’s dive into the heartwarming world of Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 can Cream of Chicken soup
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is ready to perfectly cook the chicken to juicy perfection.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken breast evenly with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is bubbling, add the chicken breasts and cook until they are lightly browned on both sides. This step helps seal in the juices and adds a golden crust to the chicken.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the Cream of Chicken soup with evaporated milk and water. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the browned chicken breasts in a baking dish, then pour the creamy sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile of the dish by adding a sprinkle of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the flour mixture.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: For an indulgent variation, sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Garlic Infusion: Infuse the butter with minced garlic before browning the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
- Crispy Coating: For an extra crispy crust, try using seasoned breadcrumbs instead of flour for coating the chicken.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle, here are some simple substitutions to adapt Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken recipe:
- Almond Flour Coating: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a keto-friendly alternative.
- Heavy Cream Substitute: Swap the evaporated milk with heavy cream to reduce the carb content while still maintaining a rich, creamy texture.
- Reduced Carb Soup: Opt for a low-carb or keto-friendly Cream of Chicken soup or make your own from scratch using keto-approved ingredients.
Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of home, love, and tradition. With its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients, this dish has stood the test of time, delighting generations with its comforting goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is sure to be a hit every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of nostalgia fill your kitchen as you embark on this culinary journey.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for ease of preparation, you can certainly use bone-in chicken pieces if desired. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken freezes well and makes for a convenient meal prep option. Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: What sides pair well with this dish? A: Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different accompaniments to suit your taste preferences.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: While the creamy sauce is a hallmark of this dish, you can certainly make dairy-free substitutions such as using dairy-free butter and coconut milk or almond milk instead of evaporated milk. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly to maintain the flavor balance.
Q: How can I prevent the chicken from drying out? A: To ensure juicy and tender chicken, avoid overcooking the chicken breasts and be sure to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce before baking. You can also cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of the cooking time to help retain moisture.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken by adding your favorite vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or broccoli florets to the baking dish before baking. Just be mindful of the cooking time to ensure that the vegetables are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.
With these tips and tricks, you’re well-equipped to master the art of Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken and create cherished memories with your loved ones around the dinner table. Happy cooking!
