Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

When I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken. This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it never fails to impress. Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of melted cheese and seasoned chicken wafting through the air, inviting you to the dinner table. The best part? It’s not just delicious but also fits perfectly into a balanced diet. With its creamy sauce and crispy topping, Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken is a dish that brings smiles to every face around the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
55 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
466 kcal
Protein:
61.6 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
16 g
Tools Used:
9×13 baking dish, saucepan

The Appeal of This Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

There’s something truly magical about the Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken that makes it a hit with family and friends alike. Whether I’m preparing a cozy dinner for two or hosting a gathering, this dish always gets rave reviews. It’s rich enough to feel indulgent yet light enough to keep everyone satisfied without the post-meal sluggishness.

Nutritious without Compromise

What I love most about this dish is that it doesn’t skimp on nutrition. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful baby swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce made from skim milk makes it a wholesome choice. Plus, it’s easy to tweak the ingredients to suit various nutritional needs without sacrificing taste.

Simple Ingredients

Another reason I adore Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken is how simple the ingredients are. You probably have most of them in your pantry already! This familiar assortment means you can whip it up on a whim without an elaborate grocery run.

Make Ahead Friendly

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. I often make an extra batch on Sundays to enjoy throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, so you can savor the creamy goodness even on busy days when time is of the essence.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to serving Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken, the possibilities are endless. I enjoy pairing it with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables, but it’s also delicious over a bed of rice or quinoa. The versatile nature of this dish allows it to shine in various culinary contexts.

What’s In This Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken is no exception. The harmony between the flavors of the tender chicken and the rich cheese creates a satisfying and hearty meal. Each ingredient plays a vital role, ensuring that you not only enjoy the taste but also reap the benefits of a balanced plate.

  • 32 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of this dish, providing the protein base that keeps you full and satisfied.
  • Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the flavor of the chicken.
  • 4 slices baby swiss cheese – Adds creaminess and a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the chicken.
  • 1 1/2 cups skim milk – Used to create a rich sauce without added fat.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Acts as a thickener for the creamy sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning – A mix of herbs that elevates the flavor profile.
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth to the sauce’s flavor.
  • 1/2 tablespoon salted butter – Provides richness and enhances the sauce’s texture.
  • 15 reduced-fat Ritz Crackers – Crushed to create a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken.

Step by Step Guide for Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Making Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken is not just easy; it’s also a fun experience in the kitchen. The steps are straightforward, allowing you to focus on the joy of cooking. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delicious meal!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside. This will ensure your chicken doesn’t stick and makes for easier cleanup.
  2. Take your bone-in chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to pound them to a uniform thickness of less than one inch. This helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
  3. Generously sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper, then lay them flat in your prepared baking dish. Next, place a slice of baby swiss cheese on top of each piece of chicken, making sure to cover as much surface area as possible.
  4. Now, let’s create the creamy sauce! In a small saucepan, combine skim milk, flour, poultry seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture together until smooth.
  5. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly while the sauce heats up, watching for it to start thickening. When it reaches a nice consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in butter, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
  6. Pour the hot sauce generously over the chicken, ensuring that it gets well-coated and seeps down into the dish.
  7. For a crunchy topping, crush the Ritz Crackers and sprinkle them evenly over the sauce-covered chicken.
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
  9. Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken.
  10. To serve, divide the chicken into four portions, and enjoy it hot alongside your favorite side dishes, like rice or vegetables.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Chicken Thickness: Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking. This technique prevents dry, overcooked pieces while keeping the meat juicy.
  • Thickening Sauce: Whipping the sauce continuously while it heats helps avoid lumps, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency.
  • Flavor Infusion: Allowing the sauce to soak into the chicken maximizes flavor, creating a deliciously rich and savory dish.
  • Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to settle, making each bite tender and flavorful.

Tips and Tricks about Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Cooking Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken can be even more delightful with these handy tips. Let’s ensure you nail every aspect of this recipe!

  • Storage: To store leftovers, place any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the assembled Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken before baking. Just cover tightly and store for up to three months. Bake straight from frozen, adjusting the cooking time.
  • Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. The crunch and brightness complement the creamy chicken beautifully.
  • Serving Size: If you’re serving a larger crowd, consider doubling the recipe. It scales up easily while keeping the same great taste.
  • Cheese Variations: While baby swiss cheese is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses for a different flavor profile. Try mozzarella or a blend of sharp cheeses for a kick!

What to Pair With Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Serving Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken opens the door to various delightful accompaniments. Here’s how to elevate your meal:

  • Steamed Green Beans: Freshly steamed green beans add a lovely crunch and a pop of color, balancing the creamy chicken.
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect base for the saucy chicken. Their buttery texture complements the dish wonderfully.
  • Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
  • Simple Green Salad: A mixed greens salad with a light dressing keeps things fresh and light, balancing the hearty meal.
  • Rice Variations: Serve the chicken over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a nutritious option that soaks up the delicious sauce.
  • Family Dinners: This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply a weeknight meal that feels like a treat.

FAQ

To keep your chicken juicy, make sure to pound it to an even thickness before cooking. This helps it cook uniformly and reduces the chances of drying out. Additionally, don’t overcook it. An internal temperature of 165 degrees F is the sweet spot. Always let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble the Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken, cover it well, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze it unbaked for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just bake it straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

There are plenty of sides that complement Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken. I love pairing it with steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans, which add a nice crunch. A light salad or some fluffy rice also works beautifully, soaking up the creamy sauce. Feel free to experiment with sides that suit your taste!

Yes, you can definitely mix it up with different cheeses! While baby swiss is delicious, you might enjoy trying mozzarella, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just remember that each cheese may alter the overall flavor and texture, so choose one that you enjoy!

Conclusion

The Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken is a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, making it a family favorite. It’s super easy to prepare and always turns out deliciously creamy and cheesy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and it’s bound to become a go-to dish in your home!

Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken

Craving something comforting yet healthy? Try Macro Friendly Swiss Chicken. This easy weeknight dinner features tender chicken, creamy swiss cheese, and a crispy topping. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and perfect for the entire family. Make it tonight for a meal that's sure to please!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 466 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Saucepan

Ingredients
  

  • 32 oz Boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 4 large
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 4 slices Baby swiss cheese I used Kroger brand
  • 1.5 cups Skim milk I used fairlife
  • 3 tablespoons All purpose flour
  • 0.25 teaspoon Poultry seasoning
  • 0.25 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 0.5 tablespoons Salted butter
  • 15 Reduced fat Ritz Crackers

Instructions
 

  • Spray a 9×13 pan with cooking spray and set aside.
  • Place chicken breasts in between two pieces of parchment paper and pound out to be less than 1-inch thick and more even across the entire breast. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper and place into prepared pan. Top each piece of chicken with cheese. Set aside.
  • In a small saucepan, whisk cold milk with flour, poultry seasoning, onion powder, salt and pepper. Place over medium heat and whisk constantly until sauce starts to thicken into a sauce. Remove from heat and stir in butter. Pour hot sauce overtop chicken. Top chicken with crushed Ritz crackers.
  • Cover pan and bake 45 minutes OR until chicken is thoroughly cooked and registers an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Divide evenly into four portions and serve hot with rice.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Use airtight containers to store leftovers for up to three days.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze the assembled dish before baking for up to three months.
  • Tip 3: Pair with a refreshing salad to balance the rich flavors.
  • Tip 4: This recipe scales well, so feel free to double it for larger gatherings.
  • Tip 5: Experiment with different cheeses for a unique touch.
Keyword easy chicken bake, healthy chicken dinner, Macro Friendly Dinner, Swiss Chicken recipe

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