Almond, Chicken And Rice Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and flavorful rice, topped with crispy potato chips—perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked rice, diced celery, slivered almonds, grated onions, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, and diced chicken or tuna in a baking dish.
- Top with crushed potato chips.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using cooked rice that has been seasoned or infused with broth. If you don't have slivered almonds, chopped walnuts or pecans can be good substitutes. To lighten the dish, you could use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. For a twist, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of cheese before baking. This can complement other American recipes well.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with a fresh California Cobb Salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a light side of mixed greens. For a comforting touch, consider offering a side of Wisconsin Cheese Soup for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond, Chicken And Rice Casserole contains roughly 957 calories, with 30g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 811mg per serving (35% 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 for a healthier option. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so ensure it's fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you're looking for an alternative, homemade cream of mushroom soup can be made from sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and chicken broth. You could also use a different cream soup, like chicken or celery, or a dairy-free version made with coconut milk and vegetable broth.
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).