Andrea'S Favorite Chicken And Rice Casserole
A hearty chicken and rice casserole featuring tender chicken breasts, creamy mushroom soup, and savory onion flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray (Pam).
- Spread 2 cups of rice evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- Place 4 chicken breasts on top of the rice.
- Spread one can of cream of mushroom soup over the rice and chicken.
- Sprinkle one package of onion soup mix over the top.
- Pour one quart of water over the mixture.
- Cover the casserole with foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 to 1.5 hours until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in garlic and herbs before baking. You can substitute brown rice for white rice for a nuttier flavor and added nutrients, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you're short on time, using rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot from the oven for a comforting meal. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or biscuits. This dish is a perfect candidate for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave servings in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Andrea'S Favorite Chicken And Rice Casserole contains roughly 466 calories, with 32g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1358mg per serving (59% 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 be aware that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the baking time to about 1.5 to 2 hours, checking for doneness to ensure both the chicken and rice are fully cooked.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and seasoning. This will still provide a creamy texture and rich flavor to the casserole.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Just mix them in with the rice before layering the chicken and soup for a more complete meal.
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).