Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced or pounded flat for quicker cooking)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 16 oz. sauerkraut (drained and rinsed)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup Thousand Island dressing
- Optional: Caraway seeds for garnish
Equipment:
- Large skillet or oven-safe pan
- Baking dish (if baking)
Instructions:
Method 1: Pan-Fried
- Prep the chicken: Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
- Cook the chicken: Add chicken breasts and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
- Layer the toppings: Top each chicken breast with a portion of sauerkraut, 2 slices of Swiss cheese, and a generous drizzle of Thousand Island dressing.
- Cover and melt: Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the flavors have combined.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with optional caraway seeds and serve immediately.
Method 2: Baked
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prep the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Layer the toppings: Evenly distribute the sauerkraut over the chicken, followed by the slices of Swiss cheese.
- Pour dressing: Pour Thousand Island dressing over everything.
- Bake: Cover dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and finish: Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Let rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with optional caraway seeds and serve.
Tips:
- Chicken thickness: If using thicker chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness for faster and more even cooking.
- Adjust the sauerkraut: If you want a less tangy flavor, rinse the sauerkraut more thoroughly.
- Homemade dressing: You can make your own Thousand Island dressing for a fresher flavor.
- Serving suggestions: Serve Reuben Chicken with rye bread for a traditional touch, or enjoy it with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
