Barbecue Rice
Barbecue Rice offers a savory blend of tender rice, mushrooms, and aromatic vegetables, enriched with smoky flavor. Perfect for casual dinners or family gatherings, it combines creamy soups with a hint of liquid smoke for a comforting, hearty dish with a touch of smoky goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the oleo or butter in a large pan.
- Add chopped celery and onions to the pan.
- Cook slowly until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cream of chicken soups, chicken broth, mushrooms, and liquid smoke to the mixture.
- Stir in the cooked rice until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking. If you want to make it vegetarian, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. Adjust the liquid smoke to your taste preference; start with a teaspoon and increase as desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Barbecue Rice as a main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Pinwheels or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For extra crunch, consider topping with fried onions or fresh herbs. It's a versatile dish that works well for family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. If the rice seems dry, adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help revive its moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Rice contains roughly 980 calories, with 35g protein, 198g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (262% of the Daily Value), protein (69% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 may require a longer cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 45 minutes to cook, so make sure it's fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for some heat. Alternatively, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving to give it a spicy kick.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving; it may need a few extra minutes in the oven if it's cold from the fridge. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
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).