Chicken Ala Rice
A comforting baked chicken and rice dish infused with creamy soups and pimentos, perfect for family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of chicken, cream of celery, and mushroom soups with water or chicken broth.
- Cover the bottom of an 8 x 12-inch baking dish with the rice.
- Lay the chicken pieces over the rice.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice.
- Dot with chopped pimentos.
- Bake for 2 hours at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of water. You can also substitute the rice with quinoa or brown rice for a healthier option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the soup mixture. To save time, use a rotisserie chicken instead of cutting up a whole chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Ala Rice pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, you might also enjoy it with a side of creamy coleslaw, which complements the dish's flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave portions in a covered dish at medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Ala Rice contains roughly 556 calories, with 18g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1860mg per serving (81% 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 requires a longer cooking time. You may need to increase the baking time by an additional 30 minutes or so, and it's a good idea to add a little extra liquid to ensure the rice cooks properly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
If you're looking to add some vegetables, consider incorporating frozen peas or chopped carrots into the rice layer for added nutrition.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you want a lighter option, you can make a homemade cream sauce using equal parts milk and flour, seasoned with salt and pepper. Alternatively, use a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth for a tangy twist. This will keep the dish creamy while allowing for some customization.
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).