Amy'S Chicken-Rice Casserole
A comforting chicken and rice casserole with green chilies, beans, water chestnuts, and pimentos, perfect for a flavorful family-friendly meal with a hint of New Mexico spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare rice as directed on the package.
- In a large (3-quart) casserole, layer the cooked rice, cooked chicken, frozen frenched beans, water chestnuts, cream of chicken, mayonnaise, pimentos, and green chili peppers.
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly, layering as listed to ensure even distribution.
- Cover the casserole and refrigerate if making ahead, up to one day.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken. You can substitute the frozen frenched beans with fresh green beans or even broccoli for a different texture. If you prefer a creamier consistency, add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up any sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables or a light soup like Bonny'S Potato Chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, ensuring they're heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amy'S Chicken-Rice Casserole contains roughly 760 calories, with 11g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1164mg per serving (51% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. After layering the ingredients, cover it tightly and refrigerate. Just remember to bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup or a store-bought low-sodium version. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth can work well as a substitute, providing a similar creamy texture.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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).