Chicken And Rice Casserole (For Microwave)
A comforting microwave chicken and rice casserole featuring savory mushroom and onion flavors, quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine condensed cream of mushroom soup, French onion soup, sliced mushrooms, water, and quick cooking rice in a 10 x 10 x 1 3/4-inch dish.
- Lay the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Turn back one edge of the wrap to allow steam to escape.
- Cook in the microwave at high for 20 minutes.
- Halfway through cooking, stir rice from the corners of the dish.
- Remove the plastic wrap and continue cooking until done.
- Brush the chicken with melted butter and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken thighs with garlic powder or paprika before placing them on the rice mixture. If you don't have condensed cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup. Quick-cooking rice can be replaced with long-grain rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Stirring the rice halfway through ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a simple green bean almondine. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or when hosting friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Rice Casserole (For Microwave) contains roughly 1948 calories, with 6g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 208g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1163mg per serving (51% 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 chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more quickly. It's best to monitor the cooking time closely, reducing it if necessary to ensure the chicken remains juicy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, remove it from the fridge and microwave it as directed.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Stir them in with the rice mixture before adding the chicken for a complete meal.
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).