5 Minute Chicken And Rice
A quick, hearty chicken and rice dish packed with creamy flavors from soups, perfect for busy weeknights and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cream of chicken, mushroom, and celery soups in a large bowl.
- Add the margarine and water to the soup mixture and stir until well combined.
- Place the cut-up chicken in a baking dish or slow cooker.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken.
- Add the rice around the chicken in the dish.
- Cover and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender, approximately 30 minutes if baking or as directed if using a slow cooker.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, consider using pre-cooked chicken. You can also substitute the cream soups with homemade versions or low-fat options for a lighter dish. If you prefer a bit of crunch, add some fried onions on top before serving. Experiment with different rice varieties, like brown rice or jasmine, for added flavor. Adjust seasoning with additional herbs or spices to enhance the dish further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with our Vegetable Soup for a hearty dinner. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top before serving. This dish is also great for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if the rice appears dry. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and rice mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5 Minute Chicken And Rice contains roughly 615 calories, with 16g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2025mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. You may need to add extra liquid and adjust the cooking duration to ensure that the rice is fully cooked and tender.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you want to avoid canned soups, you can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, and chicken broth. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute mixed with seasonings.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this chicken and rice dish freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat until hot throughout.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).