Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this chicken Fairmont will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the dish raw.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Creamy and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves chicken and gravy.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken and pantry staples are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 4
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
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1 packet dry onion soup mix
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1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
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1 cup water
Ingredient Notes
Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Onion soup mix: Adds savory flavor.
Cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy gravy base.
Water: Thins the gravy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken
Arrange the chicken breast halves in a single layer in the prepared pan.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, dry onion soup mix, and water until smooth.
Step 4: Add the Gravy
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 15 to 20 minutes more, until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy is bubbling.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, then spoon the gravy over the top.
How to Serve Chicken Fairmont
This creamy, savory chicken is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
Over Mashed Potatoes: The gravy is perfect over creamy potatoes.
With Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the gravy.
With Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles catch the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Make It with Different Soup: Use cream of chicken or celery soup.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Onions: Add sliced onions.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soup and onion mix.
Make It in a Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam.
Do not overbake. The chicken should be cooked through.
Let the chicken rest before serving. This keeps it tender.
Spoon the gravy over the chicken before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Pork chops or turkey can be used.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes. Cream of chicken or celery soup can be used.
Can I use a different seasoning?
Yes. Italian seasoning or garlic herb blend can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my chicken dry?
You overbaked it. Check the temperature early.
Why is my gravy thin?
The chicken released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add mushrooms or onions.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
The Beauty of Simple Chicken Dishes
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy chicken dish that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This chicken Fairmont is a celebration of all those things.
Keep chicken in your freezer. Keep soup, onion mix, and water in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes covered, plus 15–20 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings