Nixon Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nixon Chicken is a hearty and flavorful baked chicken dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a savory, creamy topping of sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy bacon bits. This retro-inspired recipe is beloved for its rich taste and comforting texture, making it a great choice for family dinners or potluck gatherings.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breastssour creamcream of mushroom souponion powdergarlic powdersalt and peppercrumbled baconshredded cheddar cheesebutter or cooking spray for greasing

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

In a bowl, mix together the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup until smooth.

Spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.

Sprinkle crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is bubbly and golden.

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.

Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

Try a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor.

Top with crushed crackers or fried onions for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is Nixon Chicken?

It’s a baked chicken dish topped with a creamy sour cream and mushroom soup sauce, bacon, and cheese.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a day in advance and store covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

It can be made keto-friendly by using a low-carb cream of mushroom soup.

What can I serve it with?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly tangier.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones.

Is it spicy?

No, but you can add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.

Do I need to cook the bacon beforehand?

Yes, for best texture and flavor, use fully cooked and crumbled bacon.

Can I use a different soup?

Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup also work well.

Conclusion

Nixon Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. Its combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors makes it a standout choice for weeknight meals or special occasions alike. Give this retro favorite a try—you might find it becoming a new go-to in your recipe collection.

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