Charlotte'S Chicken & Rice
A hearty chicken and rice casserole with creamy mushroom and chicken soups, savory onion, and aromatic celery seed, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil one whole chicken until cooked through.
- Debone the chicken and strain the broth, discarding skin and bones.
- Add two cups of uncooked rice to the strained broth and cook according to package directions.
- Add the deboned chicken, two cans of Cream of Mushroom Soup, one can of Cream of Chicken Soup, chopped onion, celery seed, and black pepper to taste.
- Mix well and heat until thoroughly combined and hot.
- Serve hot as a comforting main dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the broth. If you don't have Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup, you can substitute with homemade white sauce or a different canned soup. This dish can also be enhanced with vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Charlotte's Chicken & Rice hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce, making it a comforting choice for any dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, but be cautious not to overheat, which can dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charlotte'S Chicken & Rice contains roughly 301 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 484mg per serving (21% 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 leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, simply skip the boiling step and shred the chicken to mix in with the other ingredients. This can save time and add extra flavor to the dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients. Additionally, consider using low-fat versions of the soups or making your own to control the ingredients. Adding more vegetables can also enhance the nutritional value.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, Charlotte's Chicken & Rice can be frozen for up to two months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
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).