Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole combining tender chicken, rice, and savory mushroom soup, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil chicken, separate from bones into bite-sized pieces, and place in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Mix in sour cream and cream of mushroom soup with the chicken.
- Prepare Rice-A-Roni as directed on the box.
- Mix the cooked Rice-A-Roni into the chicken, sour cream, and soup mixture.
- Grate cheese and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F until the cheese melts and the casserole is bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to the sour cream and soup mixture. You can substitute the chicken with cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep. If you prefer a spicier kick, toss in some diced green chilies or jalapeños. This casserole can also be enhanced with herbs like thyme or oregano, reminiscent of flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole pairs beautifully with Fresh Garden Vegetables for a balanced meal. A simple side salad or steamed broccoli complements the richness of the casserole. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, but ensure they are covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole contains roughly 197 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 537mg per serving (23% 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 freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through. This makes for an easy meal option on busy days.
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).