Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake

Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake Recipe - A Delicious American Food Tradition

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli, creamy soup, and tangy cheese to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake is a classic recipe that has been passed down through generations in the Nixon family. It was a favorite dish of Julie Nixon, daughter of President Richard Nixon, and has since become a beloved recipe in many households.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 package of broccoli spears
1 can of cream of chicken soup
0.5 cup of mayonnaise
2 tbsp of lemon juice
0.25 cup of sharp cracker Barrel cheese
Buttered bread crumbs
wild rice

How to prepare

Boil 2 chicken breasts until cooked.
Allow the chicken to cool and remove the bones.
In the chicken broth, cook 1 package of broccoli spears for 5 minutes.
Drain the broccoli.
Arrange the broccoli spears at the bottom of a baking dish.
Place the chicken pieces on top of the broccoli.
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 0.5 cup of mayonnaise, and 2 tbsp of lemon juice.
Pour the mixture over the broccoli and chicken.
Grate 0.25 cup of sharp Cracker Barrel cheese and sprinkle it over the mixture.
Sprinkle buttered bread crumbs over the top.
Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 35 minutes.
Serve over wild rice.

Variations

Substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a different flavor and texture.
Add diced onions and garlic to the chicken mixture for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the chicken breasts until they are fully cooked to ensure they are tender and juicy.

- Drain the broccoli well to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Grate the cheese fresh for the best flavor and texture.

- Serve the Chicken Bake over wild rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the chicken breasts until cooked through.

- Bake the Chicken Bake at a high temperature to ensure the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen broccoli florets instead of fresh broccoli spears.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the Chicken Bake up to the baking step and refrigerate until ready to bake.

- Freeze the unbaked Chicken Bake for up to 3 months for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation. - Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chardonnay for a delicious meal.

- Serve with a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

23g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 5g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 60% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese) and eggs (mayonnaise)

Summary

Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner.

Summary

Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy soup, and tangy cheese, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delicious meal with loved ones and savor every bite!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe. It was many years ago when I was attending a dinner party hosted by a dear friend. The hostess, a lovely woman named Julie Nixon, served us a delicious dish she called "Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake." As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

After the dinner party, I mustered up the courage to ask Julie for the recipe. She was delighted to share it with me and even invited me over to her house for a cooking lesson. I was thrilled at the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

When I arrived at Julie's house, she greeted me with a warm smile and led me to her cozy kitchen. She began by showing me all the ingredients needed for the Chicken Bake - chicken breasts, mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, breadcrumbs, and of course, her special blend of herbs and spices.

As we started cooking, Julie shared with me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had come up with it herself after years of experimenting in the kitchen. She had always been passionate about cooking and loved to create new dishes for her family and friends.

As the Chicken Bake started to come together, I could smell the wonderful aroma of the herbs and spices blending with the cream of mushroom soup. Julie showed me how to layer the ingredients in a baking dish and top it off with a generous sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added crunch.

After the dish was in the oven, we sat down at the kitchen table to chat. Julie shared with me some of her favorite cooking tips and tricks, as well as stories from her own culinary adventures. I listened intently, soaking up all the knowledge she had to offer.

When the timer went off and the Chicken Bake was ready, Julie pulled it out of the oven with a look of satisfaction on her face. She served us each a generous portion, and we dug in eagerly. The flavors were divine - the tender chicken, the earthy mushrooms, the creamy sauce - it was a symphony of tastes and textures.

As I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I thanked Julie profusely for sharing it with me and promised to make it for my family and friends.

And so, over the years, I have made Julie Nixon's Chicken Bake countless times. It has become a beloved dish in my household, and every time I make it, I think back to that day in Julie's kitchen, learning from a master chef.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned from Julie and to have added her recipe to my repertoire. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and thanks to people like Julie, I have been able to expand my culinary skills and create delicious meals for my loved ones.

So here's to Julie Nixon and her amazing Chicken Bake - a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart and on my dinner table. Thank you, Julie, for sharing your culinary genius with me.