"Chicken Lickin"
Chicken Lickin is a comforting casserole combining tender deboned chicken, rice, and savory vegetables, all baked in creamy soups for a rich flavor. Ideal for family dinners, it offers hearty, satisfying bites with a hint of homemade warmth and simple preparation, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook, debone, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the rice to the chicken.
- Saute the diced celery, chopped onion, and chopped pepper in margarine.
- Mix all ingredients together in a baking dish or suitable container.
- Add the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups and stir to combine.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes or microwave covered with waxed paper for 10 minutes on High.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or herbs before cooking. You can substitute brown rice for white rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace chicken with a mix of hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of soup. You might also try adding a pinch of garlic powder to enhance the dish further.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crusty bread or cornbread. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the flavors. For more comforting options, browse more American recipes that showcase chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Chicken Lickin" contains roughly 411 calories, with 11g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1003mg per serving (44% 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 instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as you only need to heat it through rather than fully cook it. Mixing in pre-cooked chicken will also allow the flavors to meld quickly with the other ingredients.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you don't have cream of chicken soup, consider using cream of celery or even a homemade white sauce. You could also use a dairy-free cream soup for a lighter version. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning, as some alternatives might be less salty.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Simply assemble all the ingredients in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and follow the baking instructions; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).