The Step-by-Step Method
Because this recipe is so beautifully minimal, the key to success is giving the chicken enough room in the baking dish so the sauce bubbles up and thickens perfectly around it, rather than steaming the meat.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the dish, leaving a little space between each piece. If you like, hit them with a quick crack of fresh black pepper here.
Spoon the condensed cream of chicken soup directly over the top of the chicken breasts. Use the back of the spoon to spread it evenly so every inch of the meat is covered. This layer acts as a barrier, locking in moisture so the chicken stays incredibly juicy while baking.
The First Bake
30-35 mins
Pop the uncovered dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready for the final step when the chicken is firm and the soup has thinned out, bubbling vigorously around the edges of the pan.
Add Cheese and Broil
5 mins
Carefully remove the dish from the oven and smother the top of the chicken with the shredded cheese. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or switch your oven to the broil setting for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and sports beautiful golden-brown spots.
The Quick Clean-Up Hack: Line your baking dish with heavy-duty aluminum foil before adding the ingredients. The sauce and cheese caramelize intensely against the sides of the pan as it bakes, so using foil means you can simply lift it out and completely skip scrubbing the casserole dish later.
How to Serve It
Because Chicken Huntington creates its own built-in rich gravy, you absolutely need a side dish that can act as a sponge. It is spectacular served directly over a massive scoop of fluffy white rice, hot egg noodles, or a bed of garlic mashed potatoes.
To break up the richness of the cream sauce and melted cheese, pair it with a quick vegetable side like steamed broccoli florets or roasted green beans. The vibrant greens look beautiful on the plate next to the golden, bubbling chicken.
