Chicken And Rice Au Gratin
A hearty baked chicken and rice casserole featuring tender chicken, cheesy rice, and savory mushroom flavor, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces in a 12 x 8-inch baking dish.
- Combine mushroom soup, water, rice, shredded cheese, instant onion, and pepper in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in some garlic and herbs before baking. You can substitute the rice with quinoa or couscous for a different texture. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream to the soup mixture. This dish is versatile and works well as a base for various seasonings, so feel free to experiment with spices.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken And Rice Au Gratin pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted asparagus or garlic bread for added flavor. For a comforting dessert, follow up with Pineapple Wonder Cake to round out the meal and satisfy any sweet cravings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Rice Au Gratin contains roughly 370 calories, with 10g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 934mg per serving (41% 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 will require a longer cooking time. You may need to increase the baking time to ensure the rice cooks thoroughly and absorbs the flavors of the dish.
What can I do if I don't have mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup, you can make a quick substitute by combining cream of chicken soup with sautéed mushrooms or use a homemade white sauce as a base. This will still provide a creamy texture and add flavor to the dish.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this Chicken And Rice Au Gratin. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).