Casserole Chicken
A hearty chicken casserole with creamy soups and savory onion flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare in one dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken on rice in a well-greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Mix canned soups and milk together. Pour over rice before adding chicken.
- Sprinkle dry onion soup mix over chicken.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake at 325°F for 2 1/4 hours. Do not peek.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use boneless chicken breasts for even cooking, and consider adding vegetables like broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition. If you prefer a spice kick, add some garlic powder or paprika to the chicken before baking. Substitute brown rice for Minute rice for a nuttier flavor, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Explore other chicken recipes for variety.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes. Consider complementing it with a light wine for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave in individual portions until warm. For best texture, avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Chicken contains roughly 433 calories, with 18g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1217mg per serving (53% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is recommended for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed before placing it in the baking dish. Cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so check for doneness before serving.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce with added celery. This will maintain the creamy texture while offering a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).